Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Bites

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

Sweet Chili Sauce

• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp lime juice or rice vinegar

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
   • In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil.
   • Add cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until each piece is evenly coated.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
3. Air Fry the Chicken
   • Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
   • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
   • Cook until golden, crispy, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the Sweet Chili Sauce
   • While the chicken cooks, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Coat the Chicken
   • Toss the hot crispy chicken bites with the sweet chili sauce until evenly coated.
   • For a stickier glaze, return the chicken to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes after adding the sauce.
6. Serve
   • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
   • Serve with steamed rice, noodles, salad, or as an appetizer.