Name: Buffalo Chicken Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Shredded cooked chicken; ¼ to ½ cup Hot sauce (or more to your taste); 4 oz Cream cheese (softened); 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp Onion powder; 1 cup All-purpose flour; 4 large Eggs (lightly beaten); 3 cups Corn flakes cereal (crushed)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked piece of chicken, and when it’s wrapped in the spicy, creamy goodness of Buffalo Chicken Bites, it’s even better. I remember the first time I made these little morsels for a game night with friends. The excitement in the air was palpable, and as the aroma filled the house, everyone gathered in the kitchen, eager to try them. It felt like a party, and these bites were the star of the show.

As I pulled the golden brown bites out of the oven, my heart raced with anticipation. The sizzling sound was music to my ears, and I couldn’t resist sneaking one right away. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, they disappeared in minutes! Everyone was raving about them, and I found myself jotting down the recipe to share later. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen for gatherings, casual dinners, and even those nights when I just crave something delicious.

What I love most about Buffalo Chicken Bites is how easy they are to prepare. You can whip them up in no time and adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you like it mild or fiery hot, these bites are versatile and always a hit. They’re a crowd-pleaser that brings friends and family together, making any occasion feel special. If you’re looking for a fun appetizer or snack to impress your guests, look no further—you’ll love making these!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
23 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Rimmed Baking Sheet, Small Cookie Scoop, Mixing Bowls, Rotary Cheese Grater

The Best Thing About This Buffalo Chicken Bites

Unforgettable Flavor

The combination of shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, and robust hot sauce creates an irresistible flavor that’s both savory and spicy. Each bite is packed with a punch!

Easy to Make

Preparing these bites is a cinch! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, anyone can make these delicious treats. They’re perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick recipe.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, Buffalo Chicken Bites fit the bill. They’re not just an appetizer; they can easily become the main attraction!

Customizable

Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste. You can even experiment with different dipping sauces to find your perfect pairing. The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead or Freeze

Want to prepare in advance? You can assemble the bites and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake or freeze them for later. It’s convenient for busy days!

Fun to Share

There’s just something about having a platter of Buffalo Chicken Bites on the table that makes everyone want to gather around. They’re made for sharing, making them a fantastic addition to any social event.

What to Buy for Buffalo Chicken Bites

When it comes to creating the perfect Buffalo Chicken Bites, having the right ingredients is key. Each component in this recipe complements the others, resulting in a flavorful experience. The star players are the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and hot sauce, which come together to create a rich and spicy filling. The crispy outer layer, made from corn flakes cereal, adds that satisfying crunch that everyone loves!

3 cups shredded cooked chicken – I recommend using rotisserie chicken for an easy option!
¼ to ½ cup hot sauce – Adjust based on your desired spice level.
4 oz cream cheese – Softened for easy mixing.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a delightful cheesiness.
1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken bites.
4 large eggs – Lightly beaten for binding.
3 cups corn flakes cereal – Crushed for that crunchy coating.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Bites

Making Buffalo Chicken Bites is a straightforward process that yields mouthwatering results. Let’s dive into the steps! Start by preheating your oven—this is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown color and crispy texture.

Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). This temperature is ideal for baking the bites evenly without burning them. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the baking sheet inside for the best results.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and your chosen hot sauce. Use a fork or spatula to mix until all ingredients are well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth yet chunky, with bits of chicken throughout.
Next, stir in the cheddar cheese and onion powder. The cheese will melt wonderfully during baking, adding richness to every bite. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Using a small cookie scoop, spoon out the chicken mixture and roll it into balls, about 1½ inches in diameter. This ensures a uniform size for even cooking. Place these on a plate or a separate baking sheet while you prepare the frying station.
Now, set out three separate bowls: one with flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the last with crushed corn flakes cereal. This will be your breading station.
Dip each chicken ball first into the flour, ensuring it’s well coated. Shake off any excess flour before moving to the next bowl.
Next, dip the floured chicken ball into the beaten eggs. This helps the corn flakes adhere to the surface, creating that crunchy exterior. Make sure the ball is fully coated in egg.
Finally, roll the chicken ball in the crushed corn flakes until it’s fully covered. Press gently to help the flakes stick. Repeat this process until all chicken balls are coated.
Arrange the coated chicken balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart to allow for even cooking. This prevents them from sticking together.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid burning.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing. These bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture is Key: Ensure your chicken mixture isn’t too wet. A dry mix helps the bites hold their shape while baking.
Even Cooking: Make sure to space the chicken balls evenly on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation.
Adjust Spice: If you prefer less heat, start with less hot sauce and increase gradually.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to make Buffalo Chicken Bites your own! Here are some fun and creative ideas to try:

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different types of hot sauces to find your perfect match. You can even try flavored cream cheese for added zest.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or sriracha mayo for a fun twist.
Add Vegetables: Mix in some finely chopped celery or green onions into the chicken mixture for added crunch and flavor.
Garnish: Top with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch before serving.
Cheese Options: Use different cheeses such as pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Healthy Options: Try baking instead of frying and use whole grain corn flakes for a healthier choice.
Make it a Meal: Serve these bites over a bed of salad for a more substantial dish.

Accompaniments for Buffalo Chicken Bites

Serving Buffalo Chicken Bites can be just as fun as making them! Here are some great ideas to accompany your bites:

Fresh Veggies: Serve with a platter of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips for a crunchy contrast.
Healthy Dips: Pair with low-fat ranch or homemade yogurt-based ranch dressing for a lighter option.
Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the heat of the bites nicely.
Game Night: These bites are perfect for game day! Serve alongside chips, guacamole, and salsa for a complete spread.
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for family get-togethers, serve these bites with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches.
Picnic or BBQ: They make a fantastic addition to any picnic or BBQ spread. Just pack them up warm!
Drinks: Pair with refreshing drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or even a non-alcoholic beer for a fun touch.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can assemble the Buffalo Chicken Bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just make sure they are covered tightly to prevent them from drying out. This is a great option for party planning or meal prep!

These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with ranch dressing, blue cheese, or even honey mustard for a different twist. Fresh vegetables like celery sticks and carrot sticks also make a great accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the spicy bites.

Yes, they do have a kick from the hot sauce. However, the level of spice is adjustable based on your taste. You can use more or less hot sauce in the recipe to suit your preferences. If you prefer milder flavors, you might opt for a less spicy hot sauce or mix it with some cream cheese to tone it down.

Definitely! After assembling the bites, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer until you’re ready to bake them. When ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Bites are not just a recipe, they’re an experience! The combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy makes every bite a joy. I encourage you to try making these delicious bites for yourself, especially when you have friends or family over.

They’re perfect for sharing and will definitely impress anyone who tries them. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it!