Save Tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a creamy ranch seasoning and melted cheese baked to golden perfection for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
I first made these chicken bites for a game night, and they disappeared faster than anything else on the appetizer tray. The cheesy ranch crust won over even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 packet (28 g / 1 oz)
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp (optional, depending on ranch mix saltiness)
- Cheddar cheese: 120 g (1 cup) shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 60 g (1/2 cup) shredded
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Green onions: 2 tbsp sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.
- Arrange on Sheet:
- Arrange chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake First Time:
- Bake for 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until chicken is just cooked through.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Bake Again:
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish & Serve:
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Save My kids help sprinkle cheese before baking and always volunteer to garnish with parsley. These chicken bites have become a favorite for movie nights at home.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, and parchment paper are all you need for minimal cleanup.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese) and may contain soy or gluten depending on ranch mix. Always check ingredients when serving to guests with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 285 calories, 17 g fat, 5 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save These cheesy ranch chicken bites bring a party vibe to any night. Serve them warm for maximum melty goodness.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different cheese types?
Yes, Monterey Jack or pepper jack varieties offer unique flavors and melt beautifully over the chicken.
- → How do I make the bites extra crispy?
Broil them for 1–2 minutes after adding cheese to achieve a crispier, golden top.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free ranch seasoning; always check ingredient labels.
- → What dipping sauces complement these bites?
Ranch, buffalo, or barbecue sauces all pair well and add extra zing to the savory chicken pieces.
- → Can the chicken be prepared ahead?
Marinate chicken pieces up to 24 hours ahead to develop extra flavor, then bake when ready to serve.
- → Are there any common allergens to watch for?
Cheese contains milk, and ranch seasoning may have milk, soy, or gluten. Always verify packaging for allergens.