Sizzling Sriracha Chicken Bites are a bold and spicy snack or appetizer perfect for those who love a little heat. These tender pieces of chicken breast are marinated in a savory and spicy Sriracha sauce mixture, then air-fried to perfection for a crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. The combination of Sriracha, garlic, and other seasonings creates a tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. - Air Fry the Chicken Bites:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken bites are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). - Serve:
Once the chicken bites are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a cool yogurt-based dip to balance the heat.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus 15 minutes marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves
- Makes about 4 servings (depending on portion size).
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 220-250
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Key Notes
- Spice Level: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. For a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or replace it with a mild chili sauce.
- Marinating: Marinating the chicken helps infuse the flavor into the meat, making the bites more flavorful. For best results, marinate for at least 15 minutes, but you can marinate for up to 1 hour for a stronger flavor.
- Cooking Tips: Ensure that the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the air fryer. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Dipping Sauces: These chicken bites pair wonderfully with cooling sauces like ranch, sour cream, or a creamy avocado dip. If you want more heat, serve with extra Sriracha or chili sauce on the side.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, air fry for 3-4 minutes at 375°F to maintain crispiness.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Sizzling Sriracha Chicken Bites are perfect for those who crave bold flavors with a bit of heat. Air-fried to crispy perfection, they offer a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken bites without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, game day, or a quick weeknight meal, these bites are sure to be a hit!