Air Fryer Ranch-Crusted Chicken Bites
Air Fryer Ranch-Crusted Chicken Bites are everything you love about crispy chicken — with a healthier twist!
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dish or plate (for breading)
- Tongs or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or regular milk + 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika optional
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and pour over buttermilk. Toss to coat and marinate for 15–60 minutes.
- Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Mix panko, Parmesan, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika in a shallow dish.
- Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, shake off excess, and dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Press to adhere well.
- Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Step 5: Air Fry
- Lightly spray air fryer basket. Place chicken bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Spray tops of bites lightly. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Step 6: Serve
- Cool slightly and serve with ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or your favorite dip!
Notes
🔥 Tips for Success No Buttermilk? Use milk + lemon juice or vinegar. Extra Flavor: Add cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicy kick. Don’t Crowd the Basket: Cook in batches if needed. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko.
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Estimate)
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~13g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2g