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Crispy air fryer ranch-crusted chicken bites served with dipping sauce.

Ranch-Crusted Chicken Bites

Crispy, kid-friendly bites of chicken coated in a crunchy panko and ranch crust, cooked in the air fryer for a quick and delicious meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Ensure the chicken is uniform in size for even cooking.
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Panko adds extra crunch; plain breadcrumbs can also be used.
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix Common for flavoring; can be homemade or store-bought.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Omit for dairy-free; replace with an alternative if needed.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten Used for binding the breadcrumb mixture to the chicken.
  • as needed cooking spray or a light brush of oil To help achieve a golden brown color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a shallow bowl, stir together the panko, ranch seasoning, and Parmesan until evenly combined.
  3. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  4. Working one piece at a time, dip chicken into the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs lightly so they adhere.
  5. Arrange the coated pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with a little oil.
Cooking
  1. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) in the center.
  2. Let the bites rest for about 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days; flash freeze for longer storage. Serve with your choice of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ. Double-coating and uniform size ensures even cooking.