These Crispy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Bites are full of flavor and super easy to make! Imagine juicy chicken pieces coated in a tasty ranch seasoning and cooked to a perfect crunch.
Honestly, they disappear so fast at my house! I often serve them with a side of dipping sauce for a fun twist. Who can resist a crispy, flavorful bite? They make snack time the best time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast works well too!
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will give you a good substitute that adds the same tangy flavor.
Ranch Seasoning: While store-bought ranch seasoning is convenient, it’s easy to make your own. Combine dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a homemade touch. It’s a great way to customize the flavor!
Flour: All-purpose flour usually does the trick, but if you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free blend. They can provide a delicious crust too!
How Can You Get the Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting your chicken perfectly crisp is all about proper preparation and cooking. Here’s how to ensure the best results:
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk and ranch seasoning to add flavor and help the coating stick.
- Press the flour coating onto the chicken firmly, ensuring it’s well-covered. This helps create that crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to allow air circulation, which really helps with crispiness.
- Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before cooking. This helps achieve a golden brown color.
With these tips, your air fryer ranch chicken bites will be crunchy and delicious every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for marinating the chicken, plus around 10 minutes for preparation and cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to serve up these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by combining the buttermilk and ranch seasoning mix in a medium bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they’re nicely coated. Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours for even better flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating:
While the chicken is marinating, grab another bowl and mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will turn your plain flour into a flavorful coating that adds a crispy touch!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out of the fridge. Let any excess buttermilk drip off, and then dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure to press gently so the coating sticks well to the chicken.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps get it nice and hot for that crispy finish!
5. Arrange for Cooking:
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken bites in a single layer inside the basket; don’t overcrowd them, as air circulation is key to getting them crispy. A little spray on top of the chicken before cooking can help, too!
6. Air Fry the Chicken Bites:
Now it’s time to cook! Set your air fryer for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. Look for a golden brown color and check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken bites are all crisped up, take them out of the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or honey mustard. Enjoy your delicious and crispy ranch chicken bites!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first! Thaw the chicken by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these ranch chicken bites gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Both options will create a delicious and crispy coating!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, helping to keep them crispy.
Can I Prepare the Chicken Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and ranch seasoning up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to coat and cook the chicken bites!
