Description
For the Chicken Bites:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Coating:
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions until smooth.
Add chicken pieces to the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat each chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Lightly drizzle the chicken bites with olive oil to ensure crispiness.
Place chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 220 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). This ensures even cooking.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup ranch seasoning mix, 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar, and 1/4 cup chopped green onions. Mix until a smooth, cohesive paste forms.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to gently fold and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Create the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1/4 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Bites: Roll each cream cheese-coated chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere fully on all sides.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray or drizzle the coated bites with olive oil. Arrange them in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are fantastic on their own but can be elevated with simple pairings. Serve them hot with dipping sauces like extra ranch, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a complete meal, pair them with a crisp garden salad, celery sticks, or seasoned waffle fries. They also make an excellent game-day appetizer or a high-protein snack for lunch boxes.
How-to Summary
Cut chicken. Mix cream cheese, ranch, bacon, cheddar, and onions. Coat chicken in mixture. Roll in seasoned breadcrumbs. Lightly oil. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until crispy and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer? Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and cooked through.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 370°F for 3-4 minutes or in a preheated oven to restore crispiness.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. This method works well with boneless chicken thighs or even large shrimp. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the size and protein used.
My coating isn’t sticking. What did I do wrong? Ensure the cream cheese mixture is thick and fully coats the chicken, acting as a “glue.” Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each piece. Chilling the coated bites for 15 minutes before cooking can also help.
Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning? You can use 1 tablespoon of dry Italian seasoning mixed with 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill for a similar herby flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: Placing bites too close together steams them instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s fully softened to room temperature for easy mixing and even coating.
- Uneven Chicken Pieces: Cutting pieces to different sizes leads to uneven cooking—some may be dry while others are undercooked.
- Skipping the Oil Drizzle: A light coating of oil is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy exterior.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Starting in a hot appliance ensures immediate crisping and accurate cooking times.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Ranch Bacon Chicken Bites are the ultimate easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing recipe. Combining juicy chicken with a rich, savory filling and a crispy coating, they deliver restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Remember the key tips: keep chicken pieces uniform, don’t skip the oil, and avoid overcrowding for the best texture. Enjoy your delicious creation!
