Buffalo Chicken Bites

Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer or game-day snack, combining the bold, spicy flavor of buffalo wings with the convenience of bite-sized pieces. These tender chicken bites are coated in a zesty buffalo sauce and baked or fried to crispy perfection. Whether served with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing, these flavorful bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. They’re quick to make and offer all the spicy, savory goodness you crave in one perfect bite.

I first made these for a casual get-together, and they disappeared in no time. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce is balanced perfectly by the coolness of the dipping sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable. What’s great about these Buffalo Chicken Bites is how easy they are to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something to impress guests, these bites deliver on both flavor and convenience. They’re sure to be a hit at your next party or game night!

Perfect for:

• Game-day snacks
• Appetizers for parties
• Family gatherings
• Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Bites

Here’s why Buffalo Chicken Bites will become your go-to appetizer:

• Bold, Spicy Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering, spicy kick.
• Crispy Outside, Tender Inside: Whether baked or fried, the chicken bites maintain a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can have these ready in no time.
• Perfectly Portionable: Small, bite-sized pieces make these easy to serve and snack on.
• Versatile: Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or toss them in your favorite sauce for variation.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (if baking)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs provide the perfect bite-sized pieces for these buffalo chicken bites.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star ingredient, buffalo sauce, brings that signature tangy heat that defines the dish.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs help to achieve a crispy, golden crust, giving the bites a satisfying crunch.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps to combine the buffalo sauce into a smooth coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Chicken Bites:

1. Preheat the Oven (if baking): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
4. Arrange the Chicken Bites: Place the breaded chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil if baking, or heat oil in a pan if frying.
5. Bake or Fry the Chicken:
   • For Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
   • For Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Coat the Chicken in Buffalo Sauce:

6. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter. Stir until combined.
7. Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, place the chicken bites in a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss to coat each piece evenly.

Serve:

8. Serve the Chicken Bites: Transfer the buffalo chicken bites to a serving platter. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Bites

Buffalo Chicken Bites are best served with a few simple sides or dipping sauces:

• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like blue cheese or ranch, to cool off the spice.
• With Vegetables: Pair with crunchy celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat.
• As a Party Snack: Serve on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for easy snacking at parties.
• With a Side Salad: For a lighter meal, pair these chicken bites with a fresh salad.

Additional Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bites

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe are perfect every time:

• Make it Spicier: If you like more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce or use a spicier hot sauce.
• For Crispy Chicken: If baking, make sure to coat the chicken in enough breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: When baking, make sure the chicken bites are spread out in a single layer so they cook evenly.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier bite, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a milder sauce, mix buffalo sauce with a little honey or barbecue sauce for a sweeter version.

Recipe Variations for Buffalo Chicken Bites

Here are 5 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Honey Buffalo Chicken Bites: Add honey to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Chicken Bites: After tossing the chicken in buffalo sauce, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Bites with Ranch: Toss the chicken in ranch seasoning before baking or frying for an added creamy flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Use whole chicken tenders instead of bite-sized pieces for a more substantial snack.
• Vegetarian Buffalo “Chicken” Bites: Use a plant-based chicken substitute or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

Freezing and Storage for Buffalo Chicken Bites

• Freezing: These buffalo chicken bites freeze beautifully. Simply let them cool completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Leftover chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispy results.

Special Equipment for Buffalo Chicken Bites

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Buffalo Chicken Bites easier:

• Shallow Bowls: For breading the chicken, using shallow bowls makes it easy to dip and coat the chicken.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet with parchment paper makes for easy cleanup if baking the chicken.
• Frying Pan: If frying, use a heavy skillet to evenly distribute heat.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Use tongs to flip the chicken or a slotted spoon to remove it from hot oil.
• Measuring Cups: For accurate measurements of ingredients like buffalo sauce and breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions for Buffalo Chicken Bites

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, baking is a great option! Just make sure to drizzle the chicken with olive oil to help it get crispy.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the chicken bites in advance, then cook them before serving. They can also be frozen and reheated.
3. How spicy are these?
   These chicken bites are spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by mixing in honey or adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular panko breadcrumbs.
5. Can I add more toppings to the buffalo chicken bites?
   Absolutely! You can add shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

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Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Bites are a crowd-pleasing snack that combines bold flavors with the convenience of bite-sized pieces. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick and tasty appetizer, these spicy, crispy chicken bites will be a hit every time. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for dipping. So grab some chicken, buffalo sauce, and get ready to serve up a delicious batch of Buffalo Chicken Bites!

This recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat, making it the perfect choice for everything from casual get-togethers to game day snacks. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging on your own, these Buffalo Chicken Bites bring excitement to every bite.

I’d love to see how your Buffalo Chicken Bites turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!