Save Elevate your snack game with these golden-brown Asiago Panko Chicken Bites. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bites are infused with the sharp, nutty flavor of Asiago cheese and the satisfying crunch of panko breadcrumbs. Whether you are serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a protein-packed addition to your lunch, they are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Save The secret to these bites is the combination of finely grated Asiago and panko, which forms a savory crust that locks in moisture. It is a simple yet sophisticated twist on classic breaded chicken that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Breading: 100 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 60 g (2/3 cup) finely grated Asiago cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional), 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk
- For Baking: 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: Season
- Season the chicken pieces evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Step 4: Prepare the Breading
- In another shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Asiago cheese, optional Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
- Step 5: Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the Asiago-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.
- Step 6: Arrange
- Place the coated chicken bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 7: Drizzle
- Drizzle or lightly spray with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispness.
- Step 8: Bake
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Step 9: Serve
- Serve hot as a snack, or incorporate them into salads and wraps.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure maximum crispiness, make sure the oven is fully preheated before putting the tray in. Using a wire rack placed on top of the baking sheet can also help the air circulate around the chicken, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily swap the Asiago cheese for Parmesan or Pecorino Romano depending on what you have on hand. For a gluten-free alternative, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and verify that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
These chicken bites are delicious when served with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, cool ranch, sweet honey mustard, or a zesty garlic aioli. They also make a fantastic addition to a fresh Caesar salad or a Mediterranean-style wrap.
Save Enjoy these flavorful Asiago Panko Chicken Bites as a quick dinner solution or a stand-out appetizer at your next gathering. With their crispy exterior and savory cheese notes, they are a guaranteed favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get the crispiest coating?
Press the panko mixture firmly onto the chicken to help it adhere. Drizzling with olive oil before baking and finishing under the broiler for 1-2 minutes creates extra crunch. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which creates steam and prevents crisping.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs work beautifully and tend to stay juicier. Cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Thighs may need an extra 2-3 minutes in the oven to reach the safe internal temperature of 74°C.
- → What cheese substitutes work well?
Parmesan or Pecorino Romano make excellent alternatives to Asiago, offering similar salty, nutty flavors. Aged Gouda adds a subtle sweetness, while sharp provolone provides a milder taste. Grate finely for the best coating texture.
- → Can I air-fry these instead?
Yes. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. Lightly spray with oil before air-frying for better browning. The result is similarly crispy with less oil—just work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 200°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Microwaving makes them soggy, so use the oven or air fryer instead. Freeze uncooked portions for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding 3-4 minutes.
- → What dipping sauces pair best?
Marinara, creamy ranch, honey mustard, and garlic aioli are classic choices. Try spicy sriracha mayo, tangy BBQ sauce, or lemon-herb yogurt dip for variety. The salty Asiago balances well with both creamy and acidic sauces.