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Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites Recipe

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are a deliciously crunchy and zesty appetizer or snack made with tender chicken breast pieces coated in a flavorful lemon pepper seasoned crust and fried to golden perfection. These bites bring a perfect balance of bright lemon zest, peppery spice, and a savory crispy coating that’s easy to make and irresistibly tasty. Ideal for sharing or serving as a fun finger food at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1–1.5 inch bite-sized pieces

Dry Breading Station

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Wet Breading Station

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk

For Frying

  • 3–4 cups vegetable oil or canola oil, for deep frying

For Serving

  • Fresh lemon wedges (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse chicken breasts under cold water and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches, aiming for uniform sizes for even cooking.
  2. Set up the Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk to make the wet egg wash.
  3. Bread the Chicken Bites: Dredge each chicken piece first in the dry flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly. Then dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat again in the dry mixture for a double layer of breading. Place coated pieces on a parchment-lined plate to prevent sticking.
  4. Fry the Chicken Bites: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches of 6-8 pieces, avoiding overcrowding, for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C), turning occasionally for even browning.
  5. Drain and Serve: Remove fried chicken bites with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness. Optionally, sprinkle extra lemon pepper seasoning while hot.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the bites. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or lemon aioli if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken pieces are dry before breading to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pot; cook in batches to preserve oil temperature and crispiness.
  • For a healthier alternative, air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, or bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Adjust lemon pepper seasoning amount according to your spice and flavor preference.
  • Use a wire rack for draining to keep chicken crispy instead of paper towels alone.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites, Crispy Chicken Bites, Fried Chicken, Appetizer, Snack, Lemon Pepper Seasoning, Easy Chicken Recipe

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/crispy-lemon-pepper-chicken-bites-recipe/