Buffalo Chicken Bites
Buffalo Chicken Bites deliver all the bold, tangy flavors of classic Buffalo wings without the hassle of deep-frying. These easy-to-make, bite-sized pieces are perfect for a quick snack or game-day appetizer.
The chicken is cooked to golden perfection, then tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce made with butter, garlic, and onion powder. The result is a deliciously spicy and savory bite every time.
Serve with crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing for the ultimate snack that’s both healthier and just as satisfying as the original Buffalo wings.
Buffalo Chicken Bites: Ingredients
Tender chicken breasts form the hearty base of this dish, absorbing the bold, spicy flavors. The rich salted butter brings a velvety texture to the buffalo sauce, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated.
Fragrant garlic and onion powders add depth and savoriness, enhancing the sauce’s tangy heat. A classic, zesty buffalo sauce delivers the signature zing, balancing spice and vinegar for a mouthwatering kick.
Crunchy celery ribs provide a refreshing contrast, while creamy blue cheese dressing offers a cooling, indulgent dip that complements the fiery flavors of the chicken.
Buffalo Chicken Bites
These Buffalo Chicken Bites deliver all the fiery, tangy flavor of Buffalo wings, but with none of the deep frying! They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drenched in a rich, buttery buffalo sauce. Perfect for a healthier appetizer or game-day snack, these bites are sure to please anyone craving something spicy and satisfying.
Recipe Tips
- Perfect Chicken Texture: To ensure your chicken bites are tender and juicy, avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking. Cook in batches, giving each piece enough space to brown properly. This allows the chicken to sear without steaming, giving it that perfect crispy exterior.
- Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a less spicy buffalo sauce or reduce the amount used. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, add extra hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. Feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce to match your taste.
- Boost the Flavor with Marinade: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the buffalo sauce and seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply and creates a more intense buffalo flavor.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bites
- Crispy Fries: Pair these Buffalo Chicken Bites with crispy, golden fries for the ultimate comfort food combo. Whether you go with classic potato fries, sweet potato fries, or even baked fries, their crispy texture and neutral flavor complement the bold chicken perfectly.
- Vegetable Crudités: Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. The crunchiness of these veggies is the perfect balance to the spicy, tangy chicken, adding a light, refreshing touch to the meal.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: For a richer pairing, serve these Buffalo Chicken Bites alongside a bowl of creamy mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy pasta will help tone down the heat from the chicken and create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken bites ahead of time. Cook the chicken and toss it in the buffalo sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet or oven to restore its crispiness. - Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless thighs are a great substitute. They’re slightly more flavorful and juicy, making them an excellent choice for this recipe. Just be sure to cook them to the same doneness as the breasts. - Is there a non-dairy option for the butter and blue cheese dressing?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or plant-based butter. For the blue cheese dressing, try a vegan version or a simple ranch dressing made from non-dairy ingredients. - How can I make this recipe spicier?
To crank up the heat, add extra hot sauce to the buffalo sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper directly onto the chicken. You can also try using a hotter buffalo sauce variety or add fresh jalapeños for an extra spicy punch.
Buffalo Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts cut into 2-inch pieces (approximately 2½ pounds)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce such as Frank’s Red Hot
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Celery ribs cut into 3-inch pieces, for serving
- Blue cheese dressing store-bought or homemade, for serving
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper optional
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces evenly with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the chicken in batches, ensuring each piece has enough space to brown properly. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is lightly browned and fully cooked through.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the salted butter, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the pan. Stir until each chicken piece is thoroughly coated with the rich, flavorful buffalo sauce.
- Serve immediately with celery sticks for crunch and blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
