Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to share this recipe with you! Buffalo Chicken Bites are not just a dish; they’re a delicious explosion of flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, a party, or just a casual weeknight dinner, these savory bites are sure to steal the show—and trust me, they disappear fast!
I have a fond memory of a friends’ gathering where I first tasted this mouthwatering delight. The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafting through the kitchen was like a siren call. Everyone’s eyes lit up when they saw those crispy, golden bites coming out of the skillet. Now it’s my turn to share this gem with you!
What’s in Buffalo Chicken Bites?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make these chicken bites so irresistible:
Chicken Breast: I use 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces. Not only is chicken a lean protein, but it also acts as the perfect canvas for all the tasty flavors we’ll be adding!
Flour: Just 1 cup of flour creates a crispy coating. You can use regular all-purpose flour or even try whole wheat flour for a healthier twist!
Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper): A delightful trio! The paprika adds vibrant color and smokiness, while garlic powder gives it that lovely aromatic zing. Plus, a bit of salt and black pepper rounds it all out.
Buttermilk: Half a cup of buttermilk adds moisture and helps the flour stick, creating that oh-so-perfect crispy exterior. If you don’t have buttermilk, a mix of regular milk and a splash of vinegar works just fine!
Buffalo Sauce: We’re using a whole cup of buffalo sauce to toss our bites in! I usually go for Frank’s RedHot or any brand that packs a nice punch of heat without overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil: For frying, 2 tablespoons is all you need! It helps achieve that golden brown crunch we’re after.
Optional Serving Suggestions: Don’t forget about those crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing to serve alongside your bites. The coolness of the dressing balances the heat of the buffalo sauce beautifully.
Is Buffalo Chicken Bites Good for You?
Okay, let’s chat about the health benefits (and some considerations) of this dish.
Chicken Breast: It’s a great source of lean protein, promoting muscle health and satiety—perfect for fueling your day.
Flour and Buttermilk: While they provide that coveted crispy texture, you might want to watch portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on carbs or calorie intake.
Buffalo Sauce: The stars of this recipe! On the bright side, buffalo sauce is often low in calories and fat, but some brands can be high in sodium, so look out for low-sodium versions if that’s a concern.
Overall, enjoy these bites in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and don’t forget to pair them with those veggies!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup buffalo sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
– Optional: celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving
This recipe serves about 4, depending on how many bites you can handle!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Bites?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir—this is where the magic begins!
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, then dredge it in the flour mixture until well coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to fry but not smoking.
4. Once the oil is sizzling, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; we want them to fry evenly. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
5. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil—gotta keep things from getting too greasy!
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried chicken with the buffalo sauce. Toss until all the pieces are beautifully coated in that fiery goodness.
7. Serve immediately with crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Bites!
Bite-Sized Tips and Serving Suggestions
– For a healthier version, try baking the chicken instead of frying! Coat the chicken as instructed but place it on a baking sheet and drizzle with a bit of olive oil before baking at 450°F (230°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
– If you like things extra spicy, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or try a spicier buffalo sauce!
– These bites can be a fantastic make-ahead snack; just prepare them and toss them in the sauce when you’re ready to serve.
I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe! It’s a real crowd-pleaser and guaranteed to be a hit wherever you bring them. When you try these Buffalo Chicken Bites, let me know how they turned out! Happy cooking!
