Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites?
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites are tender pieces of chicken breast that are breaded in seasoned flour, fried until golden, and tossed in a spicy sauce made from butter, garlic, and Frank's RedHot.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended as they are easy to cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
How should I cut the chicken?
Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
What ingredients are in the seasoned flour?
The flour mixture consists of approximately 1 cup of all-purpose flour combined with a generous pinch of salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
How do I ensure the chicken bites are crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, dredge each piece of chicken evenly in the flour and shake off any excess before frying in hot oil.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Use an oil suitable for high-heat frying, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
How much oil is needed for frying?
You should add enough oil to a large skillet to cover the bottom at a depth of approximately 1 inch.
How long does it take to fry the chicken?
The chicken bites should be fried for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
How do I drain the excess oil from the chicken?
Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the hot oil and place the pieces on a plate lined with paper towels.
What is in the buffalo sauce?
The sauce is a simple yet flavorful blend of 1/3 cup butter, 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot sauce, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
Which hot sauce is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for Frank's RedHot sauce to achieve the classic buffalo flavor.
How do I prepare the buffalo sauce?
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the hot sauce and minced garlic until well combined and heated through.
How long does the sauce need to cook?
The sauce only needs about 2 to 3 minutes of continuous stirring over medium heat to be ready.
When should I add the sauce to the chicken?
Once the chicken bites are fried and drained, transfer them to a large bowl and immediately pour the buffalo sauce over them.
How do I coat the chicken bites evenly?
Toss the chicken bites gently in a large bowl after pouring the sauce over them to ensure every piece is well-coated.
What should I serve with Buffalo Chicken Bites?
They are traditionally served with creamy blue cheese dressing for dipping and fresh, crunchy celery sticks.
Can I make these chicken bites less spicy?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or use a milder hot sauce if preferred.
Are these suitable for a party?
Absolutely, these chicken bites are perfect for game days, parties, or as a tasty snack for guests.
Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?
Yes, you can substitute minced garlic with garlic powder in the sauce if you prefer a smoother texture.
How many chicken breasts does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 3 chicken breasts to make a standard batch of bites.
Is it necessary to use a slotted spoon?
A slotted spoon is helpful for lifting the chicken while allowing the oil to drain back into the pan, but tongs can also work.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used, though they may have a slightly different texture and fat content.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While this recipe is designed for frying to get a 'crispy' result, you could bake them at a high temperature, though the texture will be different.
What is the purpose of the cayenne pepper in the flour?
The cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of heat directly to the chicken crust before the sauce is even applied.
How do I prevent the flour from clumping?
Ensure you shake off any excess flour from the chicken pieces before placing them into the hot oil.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and gently reheat it when the chicken is ready to be tossed.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: chicken breasts, flour, cayenne pepper, salt, butter, Frank's RedHot, garlic, and oil.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd; just fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Should I serve the bites hot or cold?
These are best served hot immediately after tossing in the sauce for the best texture and flavor.