Baked Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Tender, golden chicken bites paired with roasted asparagus make a simple, one-pan meal that’s low-carb, high-protein, and packed with flavor. The chicken is lightly seasoned and baked, while asparagus gets a slight roast for crisp-tender perfection.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2–3 inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven: 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Season chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken bites with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare asparagus: Toss asparagus with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange on sheet: Spread chicken and asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Bake: Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping chicken and asparagus halfway through. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be lightly golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot as-is or with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a salad.
Notes & Tips
Crispier chicken: Lightly coat chicken bites in whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko before baking.
Uniform size: Cut chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen asparagus?
A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture during baking.
Q: Can I bake everything in one dish?
A: Yes! Just ensure pieces are in a single layer and not overcrowded.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer.
Q: Can this be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if coating the chicken.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280–320 kcal
Protein: 30–35 g
Carbohydrates: 5–7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Fat: 14–16 g
Sugar: 2–3 g