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Crispy Ranch Cajun Chicken Bites with Creamy Jalapeño Parmesan Dip: A Flavor Explosion


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Crispy, flavorful chicken bites coated in a zesty ranch and Cajun seasoning, served with a creamy, spicy jalapeño parmesan dip.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1-2 jalapeños, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and dried parsley. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
  4. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
  5. Once the chicken is marinated, coat each piece first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
  6. Arrange the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.
  8. Meanwhile, prepare the creamy jalapeño parmesan dip by combining the ranch dressing, hot sauce, mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, minced jalapeños, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix well until smooth.
  9. Once the chicken bites are done, serve them with the creamy jalapeño parmesan dip on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • If you prefer extra spice, feel free to add more hot sauce or minced jalapeños to the dip.
  • For a crunchier texture, you can fry the chicken bites in a skillet with oil instead of baking them.
  • Leftover chicken bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American