There’s a certain comfort that comes from a plate of crispy chicken bites, especially when they’re drenched in a spicy, tangy buffalo sauce. Picture this: you’re winding down after a long day, and the thought of fast food just doesn’t sit right. Instead, you decide to treat yourself to something homemade and satisfying. That’s where these Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites come into play!
In less time than it takes to scan a menu, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish that offers a delightful crunch paired with the perfect kick of heat. Simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for game day or a gathering with friends, these bites are versatile and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re dunking them in cool ranch dressing or just enjoying them as they are, you’ll find that these bites aren’t just a snack—they’re a celebration of the joy of home cooking. Ready to make some magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Crispy perfection: These chicken bites are perfectly golden and crispy, transforming ordinary chicken into an addictive snack.
Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy Frank’s Red Hot sauce and buttery goodness creates a flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for game day or gatherings, everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Quick and easy: Whip them up in no time, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile serving options: Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing, or serve alone for a bold flavor punch. Explore more game day recipes for the ultimate feast!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
• 2 pounds chicken breasts – ensure they are boneless and skinless for quick cooking.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – gives the chicken a perfect golden crust when fried.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds depth and savory flavor to the coating.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the flavor complexity of your chicken bites.
• 1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – provides a touch of warmth and balance to the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – lends a subtle smokiness and extra color to the coating.
For the Sauce
• ½ cup vegetable oil – the choice of oil ensures a crispy texture when frying.
• 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot sauce – the star of the dish, giving those Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites their signature kick!
• ½ cup butter – when melted, it adds richness and helps to balance the spice.
• 1 Tablespoon honey – introduces a touch of sweetness to complement the heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – a little extra boost of garlicky goodness in the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a layer of umami that elevates the overall flavor.
For Serving
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing – perfect for dipping and cooling down the heat!
• Celery and carrot sticks – classic accompaniments that add crunch and freshness.
How to Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
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Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This ensures each bite is crispy and full of flavor.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This flavorful coating will give your chicken bites that irresistible crunch.
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Dredge the Chicken: Take your chicken pieces and dredge them in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crunch when cooked.
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Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it’s nice and hot. You’ll know it’s ready when a tiny drop of flour sizzles upon contact with the oil.
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Cook the Chicken Bites: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Fry them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, typically around 5-7 minutes.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the Frank’s Red Hot sauce, melted butter, honey, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat gently until everything is well mixed and smooth.
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Toss the Chicken in Sauce: Take the cooked chicken bites and toss them in the warm buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated. This step is where the magic happens!
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites with ranch or blue cheese dressing and crisp celery and carrot sticks. Dig in and enjoy!
Optional: For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken bites up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps of the recipe: chopping the chicken, mixing the flour coating, and dredging the pieces. After coating, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and refrigerate; this helps maintain their crispiness when cooked later. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil in your skillet and fry until golden brown, typically 5-7 minutes, then toss in the buffalo sauce. This way, you’ll have an impressive and delicious dish ready with minimal effort, making busy weeknights feel a little less hectic!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites Variations
Looking to customize your Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites? Here are some delicious twists to inspire your creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy crispy goodness without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra layer of heat that’ll make your taste buds dance.
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Honey Mustard Twist: Replace Frank’s Red Hot sauce with a mixture of honey and mustard for a sweeter, tangy flavor that’s equally addictive.
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Air Fryer Option: Prepare the battered chicken bites and air fry at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes for a healthier version with fewer calories.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the flour coating for an aromatic flavor twist that complements the chicken beautifully.
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Parmesan Crust: Add grated parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a savory crust and a delightful umami punch.
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Buffalo Cauliflower: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with cauliflower florets, following the same method, for crispy Buffalo Cauliflower bites without the meat.
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Sweet & Spicy: Toss the finished bites in a combo of sriracha and maple syrup for a unique sweet heat that’s truly mouthwatering.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect bite!
Expert Tips for Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
- Perfectly Cut Chicken: Keep your chicken pieces uniform at 1 inch to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Flour Coating: Don’t skip the dredging; a thorough coating in the flour mixture ensures that the bites will have a delicious crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. It should sizzle on contact; otherwise, the chicken will absorb too much oil.
- Toss in Sauce: Coat the chicken bites in sauce while they’re still hot for the best flavor absorption.
- Dip Smartly: Serve with cool ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat of these Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites. Enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Room Temperature: These chicken bites can be left out for up to 2 hours, but it’s best to enjoy them right away for maximum crunch.
Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating: To regain that crispy goodness, reheat the bites in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy!
What to Serve with Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites?
Creating the perfect meal alongside these spicy bites adds a delightful touch to your dining experience.
- Crispy Celery and Carrot Sticks: Their crunch offers a refreshing contrast and helps cool the heat. A classic pairing that never disappoints!
- Creamy Ranch Dressing: The rich and tangy flavors of ranch dressing balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce, making every bite harmonious.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the heat of the chicken bites while adding a comforting texture to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors provide a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken and invite everyone to indulge. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
- Classic Coleslaw: Coleslaw’s crisp veggies and creamy dressing bring a refreshing element to your meal, perfectly cutting through the bold flavors.
- Iced Lemonade: A chilled drink with a zesty twist pairs wonderfully with the savory bites, quenching your thirst and enhancing the overall experience.
- Chocolate Brownies: Conclude your meal on a sweet note! Rich, fudgy brownies offer a satisfying contrast to the spicy flavor of your chicken bites, making your gathering unforgettable.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the chicken breasts are ripe for cooking?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for pieces that are plump, firm, and free from any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color. Make sure to avoid any chicken that appears slimy or has a strong smell, as these are signs of spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover chicken bites?
After enjoying your Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven is my favorite way—not only does it warm them up, but it also helps to keep that yummy crunch intact.
Can I freeze leftover chicken bites?
Absolutely! To freeze your Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until they’re solid (around 1-2 hours). After they freeze, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them directly from frozen.
What should I do if the chicken bites aren’t cooking evenly?
Very good question! If you notice that some chicken bites are browning while others are not, it might be due to overcrowding the skillet. I recommend cooking in smaller batches to ensure even cooking. Frying pieces that are the same size also helps maintain consistent cooking times.
Are there any dietary considerations for these chicken bites?
While chicken is a great source of protein, be mindful of any dietary restrictions. If you or your guests have allergies, ensure that no one is allergic to chicken or the specific spices you’re using. Additionally, for gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just double-check your hot sauce and dressing for gluten content as well!
How can I make these chicken bites spicier?
If you’re looking to crank up the heat, consider adding extra Frank’s Red Hot sauce to the coating process or using spicier sauce varieties. You could also toss in some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Customize it to your heat preference—remember, the more the merrier!
Irresistibly Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites for Game Day Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.
- Mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
- Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken bites in the skillet until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine Frank's Red Hot sauce, melted butter, honey, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce and heat gently.
- Toss cooked chicken bites in the warm buffalo sauce.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery and carrot sticks.