Name: Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup avocado oil (or oil of choice); 1 pound boneless skinless chicken (diced into bite-sized pieces); 2 eggs; 1/2 cup tapioca flour ((60 grams)); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 cup hot sauce ((we used Frank's), divided); 2 tablespoons grass-fed butter (or ghee)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something utterly satisfying about diving into a plate of Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites. Picture this: It’s game day, friends are around, and the air is filled with laughter and excitement. You can already smell the tantalizing aroma of chicken frying, mingling with spicy buffalo sauce. I remember the first time I made these bites; the kitchen became a whirlwind of activity as the crispy chicken danced in the hot oil. The thrill of serving a dish that everyone loves is unmatched, and these bites certainly know how to steal the show. Each crunch leads to a burst of spicy flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself, Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites are not just a meal; they’re an experience!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Skillet, Cutting Board

The Appeal of This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons I absolutely love Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites is their versatility. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a birthday party, or simply a family dinner, these bites fit right in. They bring a fun element to the table that everyone can enjoy, and you can serve them with a variety of dips to cater to different tastes.

Simple Yet Delicious

Making Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites is surprisingly straightforward. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip these up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant. The combination of crispy chicken and zesty buffalo sauce is a match made in heaven.

Healthy Ingredients

I love knowing that I can control what goes into my food. When making Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites, I can choose high-quality ingredients like fresh chicken and avoid preservatives. This allows you to indulge in a favorite without the guilt of processed foods. The added benefit of cooking at home is that you can tailor the ingredients to your dietary needs.

Fun Cooking Activity

These bites are not just delicious; they’re also fun to make! I enjoy involving my family in the cooking process. From mixing the batter to frying the chicken, it’s a shared experience that brings us all together in the kitchen. It’s a great way to teach kids about cooking while making something tasty.

Perfectly Crispy Every Time

Achieving that perfect crunch is key, and I’ve found that the method used for frying does wonders. The right oil temperature and cooking time ensure that each piece comes out golden brown and delicious. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of frying and impress everyone with your culinary skills.

Great for Meal Prep

Another fantastic aspect of these bites is that they’re great for meal prep. I often prepare a larger batch, store them in the fridge, and then reheat them for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week. They taste just as amazing the next day, making them an excellent option for busy schedules.

Shopping List for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Gathering fresh ingredients is the first step to making Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players, like the chicken and hot sauce, work together to create an unforgettable taste. By using quality ingredients, you can ensure that your bites are not only delicious but also wholesome.

1/4 cup of avocado oil or oil of choice: This will be used for frying, providing a crispy texture and rich flavor.
1 pound of boneless skinless chicken diced into bite-sized pieces: The star of the dish, tender and juicy chicken that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
2 eggs: Essential for creating a batter that coats the chicken perfectly.
1/2 cup (60 grams) of tapioca flour: This gives the chicken its signature crispy coating.
1 teaspoon of fine sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and batter.
1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warming spice.
1/2 cup plus 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (we used Frank’s), divided: This brings the signature buffalo flavor that everyone loves.
2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter or ghee: Used to make the buffalo sauce rich and creamy.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Making Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites is a delightful process that fills the kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. As you cook, you’ll notice the transformation of simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Ready your skillet and let’s dive into these delicious steps!

Heat the oil in a heavy-bottom medium skillet over medium heat. To ensure the right temperature, splash a drop of water into the skillet; if it sizzles, it’s hot and ready.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, tapioca flour, salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.
Place the diced chicken into the batter and toss until each piece is well coated. Let it sit for a moment to absorb the flavors.
Once the oil is at the right temperature, carefully place the chicken into the hot skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Look for a deep golden color, indicating they are cooked and crispy.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let the excess oil drain off for the crispiest bites.
Meanwhile, make the buffalo sauce: In a separate skillet, combine the remaining hot sauce and butter. Heat together over medium heat, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
Add the fried chicken to the buffalo sauce and toss until every piece is coated in that rich, spicy goodness.
For extra crispy chicken, transfer the coated chicken to a lined baking sheet and broil for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Watch closely to ensure they don’t burn!
Serve immediately with vegetable crudités and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the crunchy, spicy delight with friends or family!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Check: Always check the temperature of the oil before frying. The right heat ensures a crispy texture and prevents the chicken from becoming greasy.
Coating Technique: Avoid over-coating the chicken; a light, even layer of batter will help achieve that perfect crunch.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest on paper towels after frying to eliminate excess oil and enhance crispiness.
Buffalo Sauce Variations: Experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect level of heat.

Recipe Tips about Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Perfecting the art of making Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites can take some trial and error, but these tips will guide you along the way. Let’s ensure your bites are the best they can be!

Storage: Leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in an air fryer or oven rather than the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken bites for up to a month. Just make sure they cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Pairing: These bites pair wonderfully with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dip. Add a fresh veggie platter for a balanced meal.
Cooking in Batches: If you’re making a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy bites.
Alternative Cooking Methods: For a healthier version, try baking the chicken in the oven. Just coat with the batter and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown.
Flavor Boost: Marinate the chicken pieces in the hot sauce for a few hours before battering to deepen the flavor.

How to Enjoy Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites

As a Snack: These bites make for a perfect game-day snack. Serve them in a big bowl with toothpicks for easy eating!
In a Wrap: Consider wrapping the bites in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a tasty lunch option.
With a Dip: Serve with a variety of dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
At a Party: These bites are great for parties, easily feeding a crowd and satisfying spicy cravings.
As a Meal: Pair with sides like celery sticks and carrot sticks for a complete meal experience.
During Gatherings: Perfect for family gatherings or BBQs, bringing everyone together over delicious food.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the chicken bites ahead of time. Just follow the cooking instructions and allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in an air fryer or oven to retain their crispiness.

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites are perfect with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Fresh vegetable crudités like celery and carrots also pair well, offering a refreshing crunch. For an extra kick, add some spicy sriracha mayo on the side!

Absolutely! While I use boneless skinless chicken breasts for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites, you can also use thighs or even tenders. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly based on the thickness of the pieces.

Yes, you can make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites in an air fryer! Preheat the air fryer, then cook the coated chicken bites in batches at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will yield a deliciously crispy result without deep frying!

Conclusion

The Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites are not just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and fun! Their perfect crunch and zesty taste make them an irresistible choice for any gathering. I encourage you to whip up a batch soon; you won’t be disappointed. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll become a regular feature at your table.