This article may contain affiliate links.

Chicken Bites

Introduction

These chicken bites are a delightful twist on traditional chicken nuggets, combining tender marinated chicken with a smooth, flavorful bread coating. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 4-6 slices of white bread – The base for the coating, soaked in eggs and milk, creating a smooth mixture that binds the chicken and adds flavor.
• 4 eggs – Acts as a binding agent, helping the bread and chicken mixture hold together while frying.
• 1/4 cup milk – Adds richness to the bread mixture and keeps the bites moist.
• 1 cup small cubed chicken fillet – The main protein, cubed to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
• 1 tsp garlic and ginger – Provides a flavorful, aromatic base that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• 1 tsp crushed coriander powder – Adds a warm, slightly citrusy flavor that complements the chicken.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken and the coating.
• 1 tsp lemon juice – Adds acidity, which helps to tenderize the chicken and brighten the flavors.
• 2-3 tbsp semolina – Adds a slight crunch to the outer coating while helping to bind the ingredients.
• 1 tbsp crushed green chillis – Provides heat and freshness, adding depth to the flavor.
• 1 tbsp cumin powder – Infuses the mixture with a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander – Adds a burst of freshness and vibrant flavor to the mixture.
• Baking powder – Lightens the mixture just before frying, ensuring the bites are airy and crispy.

Method

1. Prepare the bread mixture: In a bowl, soak the slices of white bread in a mixture of eggs and milk for a few minutes until they absorb the liquid. This step ensures the bread becomes soft and easy to blend, allowing for a smooth, cohesive coating.
2. Blend the bread mixture: Transfer the soaked bread to a food processor and blend until smooth. This creates a uniform texture that will coat the chicken evenly, helping it to crisp up nicely during frying.
3. Marinate the chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the cubed chicken with garlic and ginger, crushed coriander powder, salt, lemon juice, semolina, crushed green chillis, cumin powder, and chopped fresh coriander. Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.
4. Refrigerate: Cover the marinated chicken and let it sit in the fridge for about an hour. This resting period enhances the flavor and allows the chicken to absorb the marinade fully.
5. Mix in baking powder: When ready to fry, add a teaspoon of baking powder to the marinated chicken mixture and mix well. The baking powder helps create a lighter texture in the finished bites, ensuring they are crispy and fluffy.
6. Fry the chicken bites: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, drop tablespoonfuls of the chicken mixture into the oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Frying in batches helps maintain the oil temperature, resulting in evenly cooked bites.
7. Drain and serve: Once golden brown, remove the chicken bites from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or a tangy yogurt dip.

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving (depending on oil absorption)

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
   Yes, whole wheat bread can be used for a healthier option, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
2. Can I make these chicken bites in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the marinated chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Fry them just before serving for the best texture.
3. What can I substitute for semolina?
   If you don’t have semolina, you can use breadcrumbs or a little flour to achieve a similar effect.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) until golden brown, but the texture may not be as crispy as when fried.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with sweet chili sauce, mint yogurt dip, or your favorite barbecue sauce.
• Pair with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Options

• Make-ahead: The chicken can be marinated and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.