Name: Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce; Vegetable oil, for frying

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s bold, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible, these Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites are just the ticket. With juicy chicken coated in a crispy, golden crust and finished with tangy buffalo sauce, this recipe is a must-have for game days, parties, or whenever finger food cravings strike. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites Recipe

Bursting with spicy, zesty buffalo flavor in every bite.
Delivers the perfect satisfying crunch thanks to a double-coating method.
Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes!
Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a fun main dish.
Easy to customize with your favorite heat level and dipping sauces.

Ingredients For Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade – get a recipe here)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional: Chopped fresh parsley and extra sauce for serving

Directions: How to Make Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs onto each piece for extra crunch.

Step 3: Fry the Bites

Heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken bites in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 4: Toss With Buffalo Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine buffalo wing sauce and melted butter. Toss the crispy chicken bites in the sauce until thoroughly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately with celery, carrot sticks, and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dip.

Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying – it keeps the oil temperature steady for maximum crispiness (deep frying tips).
Use a thermometer for oil temperature; too hot and the bites will burn, too cool and they’ll get soggy.
Want to make it healthier? Try baking or air frying instead of deep-frying!

Variations on Classic Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Honey BBQ Chicken Bites: Swap out buffalo sauce for your favorite honey BBQ sauce.
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Bites: Toss fried bites with melted butter, garlic, hot sauce, and grated parmesan.
Honey Sriracha Bites: Use a blend of honey and Sriracha for sweet heat.

Required Equipment for Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Large skillet or deep fryer
Mixing bowls
Tongs or slotted spoon
Paper towels
Meat thermometer (recommended)

Storage Instructions & Shelf Life for Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Cool bites completely before storing. Seal in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy. For longer storage, freeze up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 400°F (205°C) for 18–20 minutes.

Pairings & Serving Recommendations for Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Serve with classic ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Side of crisp celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat.
Great alongside loaded potato skins or a fresh garden salad.

Pro Tips For Irresistible Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Double-dredging with flour then panko ensures extra crunch – don’t skip it (learn more about breading).
Let the breaded bites rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere.
Always toss hot, fresh bites with sauce so they stay crispy yet flavorful.

FAQ – Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Can I bake these Crunchy Buffalo Chicken Bites instead of frying?: Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes on a wire rack lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?: Any quality buffalo wing sauce works well; Frank’s RedHot is a popular favorite, or see a homemade buffalo sauce recipe here.
How do I keep the bites crispy after making them?: Keep them warm and uncovered on a wire rack in a low oven — avoid covering so they don’t steam and lose crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes