Crispy Chicken Caesar Bites

Appetizers hold a special place in our culinary experiences, serving as tasty preambles that set the stage for gatherings, celebrations, and cozy family dinners. They invite guests to mingle and provide an opportunity to showcase creativity in the kitchen. Among the constellation of appetizer options, Crispy Chicken Caesar Bites stand out as a mouthwatering innovation that captures the essence of a beloved classic—Caesar salad—while presenting it in a fun and shareable format.

Elevate your appetizer game with Crispy Chicken Caesar Bites, a delicious twist on the classic Caesar salad. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, these bite-sized treats combine tender chicken with crispy panko, creamy dressing, and zesty garnishes. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they're a fantastic way to impress your guests. Learn how to create these mouthwatering bites and enjoy a fun, shareable dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup Caesar dressing (plus more for serving)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 large egg, beaten

Fresh romaine lettuce leaves, for serving

Lemon wedges, for garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, 1/4 cup of the Caesar dressing, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.

Set up the Breading Station:

In one bowl, place the beaten egg. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.

Form the Bites:

Take a tablespoon of the chicken mixture and shape it into small bite-sized balls or patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Dip each ball first into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake the Bites:

Place the breaded chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they're spaced apart. Lightly spray the bites with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Serve:

Once baked, remove the chicken bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve on a platter with fresh romaine lettuce leaves, extra Caesar dressing for dipping, lemon wedges for squeezing, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Enjoy:

These crispy bites are perfect as a party appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner option. Bite into them and savor the delightful crunch and classic Caesar flavors!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6