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Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Recipe

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4 from 15 reviews

These air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a sticky, sweet-and-savory honey BBQ glaze. Made quickly in the air fryer and tossed in a buttery sauce, they are perfect for easy dinners, rice bowls, wraps, or snacking straight from the bowl.

Ingredients

Chicken Bites

  • 1 ½ lb boneless & skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

BBQ Butter Honey Glaze

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 ½ tbsp honey

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss the pieces thoroughly with olive oil, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  2. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Air fry the chicken for 6 minutes, then shake the basket to move the pieces around for uniform browning. Continue cooking for an additional 4 to 6 minutes until the chicken achieves a golden exterior and is cooked through.
  3. Make the Honey BBQ Glaze: While the chicken cooks, combine the BBQ sauce, butter, and honey in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture continuously for about 5 to 8 minutes until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and well combined, forming a luscious glaze.
  4. Toss and Serve: Once the chicken is done, transfer the hot bites to a mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ glaze over the chicken and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the sticky sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier bites or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • Adjust the honey quantity in the glaze for preferred sweetness level.
  • Ensure the chicken pieces are in a single layer in the air fryer for even cooking and crispiness.
  • For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning blend.
  • Serve with rice bowls, wraps, or as party snacks with dipping sauces.