Crispy Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

For the Bites:

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional, for sweetness)

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice

For Coating:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 additional egg, beaten (for egg wash)

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or Italian seasoning mixed into the breadcrumbs

For Frying:

Vegetable oil, for frying

For Serving:

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or hot sauce (for dipping)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, onion, bell pepper, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, paprika, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are combined.

Shape the mixture into small bites.

In a separate bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, place the beaten egg. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Dip each bite in the flour, then in the egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs.

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the bites until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve the crispy bites with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or hot sauce for dipping.

Tips:

You can adjust the seasonings to taste.

You can bake the bites instead of frying them for a healthier option.