Chicken Bites (Print Version)
Golden buttermilk-marinated chicken bites with a crisp seasoned crust—perfect for snacking and dipping.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 1.1 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Marinade
02 - 1/2 cup buttermilk
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Breading
07 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 1/4 cup corn starch
09 - 1 teaspoon paprika
10 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ For Frying
14 - Vegetable oil, as needed for deep frying
# How to Make It:
01 - In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for optimal tenderness.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, corn starch, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper if desired, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
03 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of at least 2 inches and heat to 350°F.
04 - Remove marinated chicken pieces from the bowl, letting excess marinade drain off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
05 - Add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning as needed, until each is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
06 - Arrange chicken bites on a platter and serve hot with preferred dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- No one ever suspects just how juicy and tender these bites turn out under that crisp exterior.
- Mix-and-match dipping sauces make every batch feel new and personal.
02 -
- Rushing the oil temperature means soggy, undercooked chicken — patience pays off with crisp results.
- I once skipped the corn starch and the crust never got that signature shatter; don’t leave it out.
03 -
- Letting the chicken rest in the marinade longer makes the bites even juicier, so prep ahead if you can.
- For next-level flavor, add a pinch of dried thyme or oregano to the breading — the subtle herby notes are a game changer.