Easy Irresistible Chicken & Veggie Rice Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Easy Irresistible Chicken & Veggie Rice Bites are a perfect combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness all packed into bite-sized snacks. Quick to prepare and bake, they’re great for a wholesome dinner or a tasty appetizer that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or finely chopped)
• 2 cups cooked rice (leftover rice works perfectly)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup grated cheese
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup zucchini (squeezed dry)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, egg, grated cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients form a cohesive, moist mixture.
3. Step 3: Add the grated carrots, squeezed zucchini, diced bell peppers, and chopped green onions to the bowl. Gently fold everything together.
4. Step 4: Using about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture per bite, shape into small balls, compacting slightly to hold their shape.
5. Step 5: Place the bites evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about a finger’s width between each.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
7. Step 7: Let the bites rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, mix in your favorite fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before baking.
• Try swapping the cheese for a sharper variety like cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• Using leftover cooked rice helps bind the bites better and reduces waste.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and veggie rice bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain their crispness. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?

This recipe calls for cooked chicken to ensure the bites cook evenly and quickly. Using raw chicken would require a different cooking method and longer baking time for safety.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken alternative, and ensure the cheese you use fits your dietary preferences.

Easy Irresistible Chicken & Veggie Rice Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews

These Easy Irresistible Chicken & Veggie Rice Bites are perfect bite-sized snacks or appetizers packed with protein and vibrant veggies. Made with shredded chicken, cooked rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, bound together with egg and cheese, these savory bites bake to golden perfection. They are simple to prepare, healthy, and delicious—ideal for a quick dinner, party platter, or kid-friendly treat.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 8 to 10 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & Binders

• 2 cups Cooked chicken breast (shredded or finely chopped)
• 2 cups Cooked rice (preferably leftover, for gentle binding)
• 1 large Egg (natural binder)
• 1 cup Grated cheese (adds richness and moisture)

Vegetables & Flavorings

• 1 cup Carrots (finely grated)
• 1 cup Zucchini (squeezed dry to prevent sogginess)
• 1 cup Bell peppers (diced small)
• 1 cup Green onions (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro, optional for brightness)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add shredded chicken, cooked rice, one large egg, grated cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss together until the mixture becomes a cohesive and moist blend that will hold its shape.
3. Add Vegetables: Gently mix in the finely grated carrots, squeezed-dry zucchini, diced bell peppers, and chopped green onions. Stir carefully to distribute the veggies evenly without breaking them down too much.
4. Form the Bites: Using about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture per bite, shape the mixture into small balls by compacting them gently with your hands to ensure they hold together during baking.
5. Arrange and Bake: Place the shaped bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about a finger’s width apart to allow heat circulation. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the bites are cooked through.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bites rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps them set up, making them easier to handle and serve.

Notes

• Using leftover cooked rice is ideal as it is drier and binds better.
• Ensure zucchini is squeezed well to avoid soggy bites.
• Feel free to swap or add fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for an extra layer of freshness.
• These bites reheat well in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking before baking.

Keywords: Chicken bites, vegetable rice bites, savory snacks, healthy appetizers, easy chicken recipes, baked chicken bites, party snacks