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Beginner Recipe
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Emma Lawson | 
29.05.2025

Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Bites – Quick, Crispy & Healthy

New to air frying? These Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Bites are the perfect beginner recipe — quick, flavourful, and foolproof. Ideal for busy weeknights or healthy snacking.
Prep Time
10m
Total Time
10m
Cook
20m
Yield
2 servings
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Healthy
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Chicken

Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Simple ingredients for a crispy, healthy result

  • 300g boneless chicken thighs or breast
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Topping Ideas

  • Fresh parsley
  • Grated parmesan
  • Lemon zest

Chicken Choice Tip

Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner — either works well for this beginner-friendly recipe.

How to Make Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Bites

A foolproof recipe for crispy, juicy chicken in your Ninja air fryer.

  1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
  2. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
  3. Preheat Ninja air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 minutes.
  4. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Serve warm with your favourite dip or side.

Extra Crispy Tip

  • Don’t overcrowd the basket
  • Use cornstarch for crispier texture
  • Spray lightly with oil before air frying

Air Fryer Chicken Bites Nutrition

Calories: 290 | Protein: 34g | Carbs: 4g | Fat: 15g

Ways to Serve These Chicken Bites

  • With sweet potato fries and coleslaw
  • In a wrap with lettuce and garlic yogurt
  • On a salad for extra protein
  • With your favourite dipping sauces

Final Thoughts on This Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipe

This is one of those recipes every air fryer beginner should try — it's quick, flexible, and uses basic ingredients with great results. Whether you're using a Ninja air fryer or any model, these chicken bites deliver reliable flavour and a golden, crispy finish every time. Perfect for kids, adults, or meal prep, and a great intro to healthier cooking with zero fuss. Bookmark this as your go-to for simple air fryer chicken!

Explore other Recipes below!

Beginner Air Fryer Chicken FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

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Yes! Boneless chicken breast works great — just cut it into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
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What temperature is best for chicken in the air fryer?

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Set your Ninja air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook for 10–12 minutes depending on size.
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Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

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Yes — preheating for 2–3 minutes helps ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
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How do I know when the chicken is done?

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Use a thermometer to check the internal temp has reached 75°C (165°F), or slice into a piece to check it’s no longer pink inside.
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