1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nicer sear. Then, cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

2. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined, forming a fragrant marinade.

3. Coat the Chicken: Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together thoroughly, making sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. You can use a spoon or your hands for this.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 F (200 C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a slightly crispy exterior.

5. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of crisping it.

6. Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

7. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.