In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
In the bowl with the banana, add the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all wet ingredients are incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; some lumps are okay.
Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface.
Use a tablespoon to drop small amounts of batter onto the skillet (each about the size of a silver dollar). Make sure to leave space between each pancake piece.
Cook for 2-3 minutes or until small bubbles form on the surface. Flip the pancake bites and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer the cooked pancake bites to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Notes
Serve with maple syrup or chocolate sauce and garnish with banana slices.