#1,599: Crispy Quinoa-Coated Chicken Bites

Here is a fantastic recipe that was really quite simple to make, and everyone in my family went crazy for it.  The breading was so crispy and the chicken was super tender.  This is definitely going into a "make again/favorite" category!  I do think it is a tad bit under seasoned, but overall still really, really, really good!

1/2 c. all-purpose flour (I used whole wheat flour)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tbsp water
1/2 c. panko bread crumbs
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 c. quinoa, rinsed and cooked according to package directions
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water. In a third shallow dish, stir together the panko, Parmesan and cooked quinoa.

Working in batches, place chicken pieces in the dish with the flour mixture and toss to coat. Dip a flour-coated chicken in egg mixture and turn over several times until thoroughly coated. Lastly dip chicken into the quinoa mixture, gently pressing the crumbs into the chicken; as they are coated. Set each piece on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Bake for 20 to 23 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and browned.