Description
Crispy, juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken bites coated with ranch flavor and served with a creamy jalapeño Parmesan dip. This easy appetizer or dinner option is bold, crunchy, and packed with zesty, cheesy heat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp jalapeño pickling juice or fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk, half of the ranch seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and remaining ranch and Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.
- Fry the chicken bites in batches for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
- To make the dip, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, jalapeños, jalapeño juice or lime juice, garlic, and parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the crispy ranch Cajun chicken bites hot with the creamy jalapeño Parmesan dip on the side.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more Cajun seasoning or an extra jalapeño to the dip.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for juicier bites.
- The chicken can also be air-fried or baked for a lighter version.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the dip the best flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American