Best Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Best Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Introduction
Get ready for a flavor explosion that's incredibly simple to make! These Best Easy Buffalo Chicken Bites are your new go-to for game day, party appetizers, or simply a delicious snack. Juicy chicken pieces are perfectly seasoned and coated in a classic, tangy buffalo sauce that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They disappear fast, so you might want to make a double batch!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- BC; teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
- BC; cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: Blue cheese or ranch dressing, and celery sticks for serving
Instructions
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. You may need to cook in batches.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter until well combined.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, transfer it back to the clean skillet or a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss gently until every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Serve immediately with your favorite blue cheese or ranch dressing and a side of crisp celery sticks, if desired. Enjoy these irresistible bites!
Pro Tips & Notes
- Even Bites: Cut your chicken into similarly sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are still raw.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or mix in a touch more melted butter or a spoonful of honey to balance the heat. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your buffalo sauce mix.
- Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier result, cook the seasoned chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until cooked through. Then toss with the buffalo sauce.
- Make Ahead: Cooked buffalo chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and often result in even juicier bites. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook.
- Q: How can I make these buffalo chicken bites spicier? A: To amp up the heat, you can add a small amount of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot pepper sauce to the buffalo wing sauce mixture.
- Q: Can I bake these instead of pan-frying? A: Yes! Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Then toss with the buffalo sauce.
- Q: How long do leftovers last? A: Leftover Buffalo Chicken Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They reheat well in the microwave or a warm oven.