Chicken Bites Recipe: Elevate Your Appetizer Game Now
These Crispy Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of tender and juicy chicken, coated with a flavorful seasoning blend, and pan-fried to golden perfection. Ideal as an appetizer or a fun meal for kids, these bites are easy to make and incredibly versatile. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a snack everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
- ¼ cup vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Pour the mixture over the chicken pieces, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Coating Mixture: In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Fry the chicken bites in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispy bites, double dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour.
- These chicken bites can be baked in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes if you prefer a healthier option.
- Feel free to add different seasonings like cayenne pepper for a spicier kick, or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.