**Crispy Chicken Cauliflower Bites**

**Ingredients:**

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 8 oz), cooked and shredded or finely diced

• * 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into very small florets

• * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• * 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

• * 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• * 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• * 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• * Salt and black pepper to taste

• * 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• * 2 tablespoons milk (any kind)

• * Vegetable oil or non-stick cooking spray for baking

**Instructions:**

• **Prepare the Cauliflower:** Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until fork-tender but still firm. Drain very well and let cool slightly. Mash the cauliflower with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with some small lumps remaining.

• 2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mashed cauliflower, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

• 3. **Form the Bites:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Add this mixture to the chicken and cauliflower mixture. Stir thoroughly until a cohesive dough-like consistency is formed. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a tiny splash more milk.

• 4. **Shape and Chill:** Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or nugget shapes, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.

• 5. **Cook the Bites:**

• * **Baking Method (Recommended for Crispier Results):** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the chicken cauliflower bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops of the bites with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

• * **Air Fryer Method:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

• 6. **Serve:** Let cool for a few minutes before serving. These are fantastic on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, ranch, honey mustard, or a sweet chili sauce!