Introduction
Welcome to a deliciously simple recipe that combines the goodness of spinach, tender chicken, and creamy flavors into bite-sized delights! These Creamy Spinach and Chicken Air Fryer Bites are not only a great way to sneak in some veggies, but they’re also perfect for a quick snack, party appetizer, or even as a satisfying meal on the go.
Air frying has revolutionized the way we prepare our favorite comfort foods, allowing us to enjoy crispy textures without the excess oil. This recipe layers tender chicken with a rich spinach and cream cheese mixture, all enveloped in a crispy, golden coating. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or entertaining friends, these bites are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and appealing presentation.
Are you ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this recipe and whip up these delectable air fryer bites that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray
Instructions
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
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- Incorporate the beaten egg into the mixture and stir until evenly distributed. This will assist in binding the ingredients together.
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- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or bites, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for about 12-15 bites.
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- Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each spinach and chicken ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well-coated.
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- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
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- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the spinach and chicken bites in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
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- Air fry the bites at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they achieve a golden brown and crispy texture. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
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- After cooking, take the bites out of the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They are tasty on their own or paired with your preferred dipping sauce!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 1 pound, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Fresh Spinach: 2 cups, chopped (can substitute with frozen spinach, thawed and drained).
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened for easy mixing.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, for added flavor and creaminess.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for a savory kick.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall taste.
- Salt: To taste, typically about 1/2 teaspoon.
- Black Pepper: To taste, usually around 1/4 teaspoon.
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup, for added crunch (panko works great!).
- Olive Oil Spray: For lightly coating the bites before air frying.
Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences or dietary needs!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Before you start preparing your mixture, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking and that your bites become perfectly crispy.
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Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine cooked and shredded chicken, fresh spinach (sautéed or steamed and drained), cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
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Form the Bites: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the filling and shape them into bite-sized balls or patties. Aim for a diameter of about 1 inch, ensuring they can fit comfortably in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
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Coat with Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy texture, roll each bite in breadcrumbs (you can use seasoned or panko breadcrumbs for more crunch). Make sure each bite is evenly coated.
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Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the bites in a single layer in the basket, ensuring there is enough space between each piece for air circulation. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
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Air Fry: Cook the bites in the preheated air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will allow them to achieve a golden-brown color and crispy texture on all sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking.
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Check for Doneness: Once the bites are golden and crispy, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
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Serve: Carefully remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or a zesty yogurt dip!
Enjoy your deliciously crispy Creamy Spinach and Chicken Air Fryer Bites as a party appetizer or a savory snack!
Serving Suggestions
These Creamy Spinach and Chicken Air Fryer Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
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Appetizer Platter: Serve these bites on a large platter with toothpicks, alongside a selection of dipping sauces such as ranch, tzatziki, or marinara for a fun appetizer at parties or gatherings.
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Fresh Salad Bed: Create a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. Top it with the air fryer bites and drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a healthy meal.
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Wrap It Up: Place the creamy spinach and chicken bites in a whole grain wrap with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite spread (like hummus or avocado) for a satisfying lunch.
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Pasta Dish: Toss the bites with cooked pasta, olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a quick and delicious dinner option that’s packed with flavor.
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Savory Snack: Pair them with a side of creamy spinach dip or guacamole for a tasty snack during game day or movie night.
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top your bites with freshly chopped herbs such as basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color on your serving plate.
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Cheese and Wine Pairing: Elevate your meal by serving the bites with a selection of cheeses and a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which complements the creamy spinach.
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Bento Box Lunch: For a fun twist, pack the bites in a bento box with sliced veggies, a small portion of brown rice or quinoa, and some fruit for a balanced and appealing lunch on the go.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your preferences and the occasion. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy bites!
Conclusion
These Creamy Spinach and Chicken Air Fryer Bites are a delightful and satisfying option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful snack or appetizer without the guilt. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant spinach wrapped in a creamy, cheesy filling creates a mouthwatering bite that is hard to resist.
Using the air fryer not only enhances the texture, giving you that perfect crispy exterior, but also makes the cooking process quicker and healthier compared to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re serving these bites at a party, enjoying them for a cozy family dinner, or just indulging in a tasty treat during a movie night, they are sure to impress.
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices, or try adding different cheeses to suit your taste. These versatile bites are bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to air fry your way to deliciousness! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
