Description
These crispy, ranch-seasoned chicken bites are a quick and easy 20-minute appetizer made in the air fryer. They deliver bold flavor and a golden crunch without the mess of deep frying—perfect for parties, snacks, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Ranch dressing (for dipping, optional)
- Honey mustard (for dipping, optional)
- Buffalo sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Toss chicken cubes in the ranch coating mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange coated chicken bites in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between pieces.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F in the center. If needed, cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer chicken bites to a plate and serve hot with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for best crispiness. Prep chicken ahead and refrigerate for quick snacks. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6-8 chicken bites per serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 24
Keywords: air fryer chicken bites, ranch chicken, appetizer, easy chicken recipe, crispy chicken, party snack, kid friendly, gluten free option, dairy free option