Whole Grain Baked Chicken Bites: A Healthier Game Day Snack

When it comes to game day snacks, crispy chicken bites are always a crowd favorite. Whether you're watching the a big game, movie, or hosting a party at home, these whole grain baked chicken bites are the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and nutrition. Made with a wholesome whole grain coating and baked to perfection, they’re a delicious, protein-packed alternative to traditional fried appetizers.

A Nutritious Twist on a Classic Snack

Unlike their deep-fried counterparts, these baked chicken bites use whole grain breadcrumbs for a fiber boost while keeping that satisfying crispy texture. Whole grains not only add a heartier bite but also provide essential nutrients like fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Pair that with lean protein from chicken, and you have a snack that’s both filling and nourishing. And the preparation method of baking/air frying allows this dish to remain not high in fat which is a heart healthy cooking method (also FYI February is heart healthy month!)

Game Day Dipping: The Perfect Pairings

No chicken bite is complete without a delicious dip! These whole grain chicken bites are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are three options that add both flavor and nutrition:

• Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip: A creamy, tangy alternative to traditional ranch with added protein and probiotics.

• Buffalo Greek Yogurt Dip: A spicy, tangy dip with a cooling yogurt base for the ultimate game-day flavor.

• Honey Mustard Dip: The perfect balance of sweet and savory, made with real honey for a natural touch of sweetness.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

These baked chicken bites aren’t just for sports fans—they’re a hit with kids, too! The mild flavor and crispy coating make them a favorite among picky eaters. Plus, they’re a great way to add in whole grains and lean protein without sacrificing taste. Serve them as a fun after-school snack, or make them for a family-friendly dinner that everyone will love.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

Want to get a head start on your game-day prep? These chicken bites can be made ahead of time and frozen for later. Simply bake a batch, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, pop them in the air fryer for a quick and crispy reheat—no need to thaw! Reheating in microwave yields a different texture and will not be as crisp. If you do not have an air fryer, I recommend reheating in oven at 400*F for 10-12 minutes.

The Ultimate Whole Grain Appetizer

Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a satisfying snack, these whole grain baked chicken bites check all the boxes. They’re crispy, flavorful, and packed with better-for-you ingredients that make game day a little healthier without compromising on taste. Serve them up with your favorite dip, and you’ve got a winning snack that everyone will cheer for!

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Whole Grain Baked Chicken Bites: A Healthier Game Day Snack

Yield: 6

Author: Macy Diulus RD, LD, MPH, CDCES

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 15 MinTotal time: 25 Min

When it comes to game day snacks, crispy chicken bites are always a crowd favorite. Whether you're watching the Super Bowl or hosting a tailgate at home, these whole grain baked chicken bites are the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and nutrition. Made with a wholesome whole grain coating and baked to perfection, they’re a delicious, protein-packed alternative to traditional fried appetizers.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 24 crackers of whole grain & seed crackers [I used 1/2 of 7.3 oz box of Dare Grains First Whole Grain & Seeds Crackers]
• 1/2 tsp ground herbs of choice [I used Italian seasoning mix- salt free]
• 1 cup plain greek yogurt
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400*F or use air fryer per your model's instructions.
2. Place the whole grain crackers + herb seasoning into a bullet blender or mini food processor. Pulse until crackers turn into small crumbs. Set aside.
3. In a shallow bowl or deep plate - mix together the yogurt, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and paprika. Set aside.
4. Slice each chicken thigh into 1-2 inch size pieces.
5. Dip each piece of chicken into the yogurt mixture. And then into whole grain crumb mixture. Place on foil lined baking sheet.
6. Place chicken bites in preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until internal temperature is 165*F.
7. Remove from oven and pair with favorite dipping sauce and crunchy veggies. Enjoy!

Notes

• You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast for a more lean option of protein

Nutrition Facts

Calories

223

Fat

8 g

Sat. Fat

2 g

Carbs

4 g

Fiber

1 g

Net carbs

2 g

Sugar

1 g

Protein

33 g

Sodium

191 mg

Cholesterol

145 mg

The nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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