Golden, crispy, and bursting with cheesy flavor, these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these little bites deliver a satisfying crunch on the outside with juicy tenderness inside.
What makes this recipe so irresistible is how effortless it is. Using just a few pantry staples and a quick cooking method, you can transform simple chicken into a dish that feels like it belongs at a restaurant table. Each bite is coated with savory Parmesan and breadcrumbs, creating a texture that’s both crunchy and cheesy—perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces or enjoying on its own.
What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?
For the best flavor, freshly grated Parmesan is ideal. It melts slightly into the crust, giving a rich nutty taste that pre-shredded versions sometimes lack. However, if convenience is your priority, pre-grated Parmesan will still create a delicious coating. The important part is ensuring the cheese is finely grated so it blends well with the breadcrumb mixture, giving every chicken bite a uniform golden crust.
Ingredients for the Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites
- Chicken Breast – Lean and tender, perfect for cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds that salty, cheesy flavor to the crust.
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular) – The secret to that crunchy bite.
- Eggs – Help the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a warm depth of flavor.
- Paprika – For a hint of smokiness and color.
- Salt and Black Pepper – To balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – Keeps the coating crisp while baking or frying.


How To Make Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small, even bite-sized pieces. Keeping them uniform helps ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy inside. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the coating stick.
Step 2: Create the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together finely grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This savory blend will create the crispy, cheesy crust everyone loves.
Step 3: Dip and Coat
Crack two eggs into another bowl and beat them until smooth. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every side is well-coated for the best crunch.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken bites on a lined baking sheet, lightly greased with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. For extra crispiness, you can air fry them at 375°F for about 12–14 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once golden and sizzling, let the chicken bites rest for a minute before serving. Pair with your favorite dips like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for a finger-licking finish.
Serving and Storing Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites
These chicken bites taste their best right out of the oven, when the crust is at peak crispiness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunchy exterior without drying out the chicken.
What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites?
1. Garlic Butter Pasta
A simple spaghetti tossed with garlic and butter balances the crunchy bites with a comforting side.
2. Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
The sweet and savory flavors make a perfect contrast to the cheesy chicken.
3. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Pairing these bites with a cozy soup creates a hearty dinner option.
4. Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons are a classic match for Parmesan-coated chicken.
5. Cheeseburger Soup
A warm, cheesy soup that complements the crunchy chicken with a hearty, creamy base.
6. Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
For a bold twist, serve alongside seafood for a surf-and-turf inspired meal.
7. Parmesan Baked Potatoes
Double up on the cheesy goodness with this side dish that shares the same star ingredient.
Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?
If you loved these Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken for an indulgent Southern-style meal.
- Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy if you prefer a cozy, set-it-and-forget-it dinner.
- Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for a cheesy, comfort-filled option.
- Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Skillet when you need a one-pan meal full of flavor.
- White Wine Parmesan Chicken for a restaurant-worthy dinner with a rich, savory sauce.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this easy and delicious chicken recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a quick dinner or appetizer idea.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe you swapped panko for seasoned crumbs or added a pinch of chili flakes? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite dish might be waiting there!
Print
Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Craving something crispy, cheesy, and ready fast? These Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites deliver golden crunch and juicy chicken in every bite—perfect for a quick dinner, football snacks, or kid-approved lunches. Simple pantry ingredients (Parmesan, panko, garlic, paprika) build big flavor with minimal effort. Make them baked or pan-fried, and serve with ranch, marinara, or honey mustard. Ideal for busy weeknights, party appetizers, meal prep, and lunchbox ideas. If you’re searching for quick breakfast (leftovers in a wrap!), easy dinner, healthy snack alternatives, or just fresh food ideas to rotate into your week, this easy recipe checks every box for fast, family-friendly dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
2 large eggs beaten
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional for garnish
Instructions
1. Cut and Dry: Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and pat very dry with paper towels.
2. Prep Coatings: Whisk eggs in a bowl. In a second bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread: Dip chicken in egg, then press into the Parmesan mixture to coat all sides.
4. Cook (Skillet): Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook bites 4–5 minutes per side until golden and 165°F inside. Work in batches.
5. Or Bake: Place on a parchment-lined sheet (wire rack if available), spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Serve: Rest 2 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Grate Parmesan from a block for the crispiest crust.
Use a wire rack and convection fan for maximum crunch when baking.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner
- Method: Baked or Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 bites
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 780
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 36
- Cholesterol: 155
Keywords: parmesan chicken bites, easy appetizer, quick dinner, kid-friendly, party food, oven baked chicken, skillet chicken