Name: Cajun Chicken Bites
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter); 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth); ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust based on Cajun seasoning’s saltiness); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice); Chopped parsley or green onions; Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for dipping; Fresh lemon or lime wedges

Description

These Cajun Chicken Bites are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a bold Cajun seasoning blend. They’re quick to make and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or protein-packed meal. Serve them with a dipping sauce or over rice for a delicious, easy dish!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth)
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust based on Cajun seasoning’s saltiness)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

Optional Garnishes & Dipping Sauces:

Chopped parsley or green onions
Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for dipping
Fresh lemon or lime wedges

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Place in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil (or melted butter).
Season the chicken:
- Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne over the chicken.
- Toss to coat evenly.
Cooking Options:

Stovetop Method:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange chicken in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Oven-Baked Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve & enjoy:
- Garnish with parsley or green onions.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Notes

Make it Extra Crispy: Toss chicken in ½ cup panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
Lower-Sodium Version: Use a homemade Cajun seasoning blend with less salt.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheat in a skillet or air fryer.
Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, in wraps, or with roasted veggies for a full meal.