Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Boneless Buffalo Chicken Bites?
They are double-coated, seasoned chicken breast pieces that are fried until golden and tossed in a buttery hot sauce, designed to taste like Applebee's boneless hot wings.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
Chicken breast is recommended, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch pieces.
How do I make the flour coating for the chicken?
Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
What ingredients are in the wet coating mixture?
The wet coating consists of 1 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of hot sauce, garlic powder, and ground pepper.
How do you achieve the extra crunch on the chicken bites?
The chicken is double-coated by dipping it in the flour mixture first, then the wet butter-hot sauce mixture, and then returning it to the flour for a second coating.
Why do I need to refrigerate the chicken before frying?
Refrigerating the coated chicken for 60 to 90 minutes helps the breading adhere better so it doesn't fall off during the frying process.
What is the correct oil temperature for frying?
The vegetable oil should be heated to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) before adding the chicken.
How long does it take to fry the chicken bites?
Fry the chicken in batches for 10 to 15 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
How much oil should I use for frying?
Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces, which is typically at least one inch deep.
How do I prepare the final tossing sauce?
Combine 1 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of hot sauce, and a dash of garlic powder and ground pepper in a saucepan over low heat.
Can I make these chicken bites less spicy?
Yes, you can omit the cayenne pepper from the flour mixture to reduce the spice level.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve between 6 and 8 people.
What brand of hot sauce is suggested?
The recipe suggests using Louisiana Hot Sauce for the best flavor.
What should I do after removing the chicken from the oil?
Place the cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil before tossing it in the sauce.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This dish is categorized under Chicken Breast and can be served as an appetizer or snack.
How do I ensure the chicken is evenly coated in sauce?
Transfer the hot fried chicken to a large bowl, pour the buttery hot sauce over it, and toss or shake until every piece is covered.
Is garlic powder used in the recipe?
Yes, garlic powder is used in both the initial wet coating mixture and the final tossing sauce.
Should I fry all the chicken at once?
No, you should fry the chicken in batches to avoid crowding the pot and lowering the oil temperature.
What are some recommended tags for this dish?
Appropriate tags include game day, buffalo style, spicy, appetizer, and copycat recipe.
Can I use butter for frying?
No, the recipe calls for vegetable oil for the actual frying, while butter is used for the coating and sauce.
What size should the chicken pieces be?
The chicken should be trimmed of fat and cut into uniform 1-inch pieces.
How do I microwave the wet mixture?
Mix the butter, hot sauce, and spices in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for approximately 20 seconds.
Is it necessary to use a deep fryer?
You can use either a dedicated deep fryer or a deep pot on the stove.
Does the recipe include salt?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of salt is included in the dry flour mixture.
Should the sauce be hot when tossing?
Yes, you should prepare the sauce over low heat in a saucepan so it is warm when applied to the hot chicken.
How should I serve these chicken bites?
Serve them immediately while hot, ideally with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
Can I use black pepper?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of ground pepper in both the wet coating and the final sauce.
How long should I chill the chicken?
The chicken needs to be refrigerated for at least 60 minutes, though 90 minutes is recommended.
What is the texture of the finished chicken?
The double-coating method ensures the chicken bites have an extra crunchy exterior while remaining tender inside.
Is this a good dish for hosting?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleasing dish that brings the restaurant experience to your home kitchen.