Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Bites

Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Bites are a delightful combination of tender chicken coated in a golden, crispy crust and tossed in a sweet, tangy honey mustard sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or as an irresistible appetizer. Packed with flavor and crunch, these chicken bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly crispy: The coating stays golden and crunchy while the chicken remains juicy.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Enjoy as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.
Kid-friendly: The sweet and tangy flavor is a hit with kids.
Customizable: Adjust the sauce to suit your flavor preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Eggs
Panko breadcrumbs
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Honey
Dijon mustard
Yellow mustard
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying or baking)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Set up breading stations: In one bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the chicken: Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, dip in the egg, and then roll in breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Cook the chicken:
- Frying option: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Baking option: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken pieces on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make the honey mustard sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and a pinch of salt.
Toss the chicken: Place the cooked chicken bites in a large bowl, pour the honey mustard sauce over them, and toss to coat.
Serve: Serve warm as is or with extra sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 4-6.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Honey Mustard: Add sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Air Fryer Version: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or shrimp.
Additional Coating: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the crispy coating.

FAQs

Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before cooking.

How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy?

Serve immediately after tossing with the sauce. For leftovers, reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs will work, though panko breadcrumbs provide the crispiest texture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe doesn’t contain dairy, but check your breading ingredients to confirm they’re dairy-free.

How can I thicken the honey mustard sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch or cook it over low heat until it thickens.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baked chicken is a healthier alternative and just as delicious. Use cooking spray for a golden, crispy finish.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze the cooked chicken bites?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I adjust the sweetness in the sauce?

Of course! Adjust the honey to your preferred level of sweetness.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Bites are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for dinner, a party, or a game-day treat, they’re sure to impress. With their irresistible crispy coating and sweet, tangy sauce, you’ll find yourself making this recipe on repeat. Enjoy!