Texas-Mex Chicken Bites
Spicy Texas-Mex Chicken Bites offer tender, flavorful chicken coated in a crunchy chili-seasoned cornmeal crust, perfect for snacking or serving as a party appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the poultry in a microwave-safe baking dish and cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap, venting one corner.
- Cook on 100% power (High) for 3 minutes.
- Turn the poultry pieces over and rearrange by moving the outside pieces to the center of the dish.
- Cook, covered, on High for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until the poultry is tender and no longer pink.
- In a plastic bag, combine cornmeal, chili powder, red pepper, and salt.
- Cut the cooked poultry into 1-inch pieces.
- Put the chicken pieces into the bag, close it, and shake to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice and garlic before cooking. If you don't have cornmeal, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can serve as good substitutes for coating. Adjust the spices to your taste, especially if you're sensitive to heat. These chicken bites are versatile and can be used in tacos or salads, like the Mexichini Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken bites on a bed of shredded iceberg lettuce for a fresh crunch. They pair beautifully with the Corn And Black Bean Salad for a colorful meal. Consider serving them with dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole. For a complete meal, add sides such as rice or beans, or even use them in a wrap.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. This ensures they stay crispy and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas-Mex Chicken Bites contains roughly 93 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 933mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. It’s best to marinate it overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
What can I serve with Texas-Mex Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites can be served as an appetizer or main dish. They pair well with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also use them in tacos or wraps for a delicious meal, perhaps alongside the Black Bean And Vegetable Soup for a complete dinner experience.
How do I make these chicken bites spicier?
To increase the spiciness, you can add more ground red pepper or include diced jalapeños in the seasoning bag. Additionally, serving them with a spicy dip or sauce will enhance the heat and flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).