Skinny Buffalo Chicken Bites

If you’re searching for the perfect game-day snack or a delicious appetizer for your next gathering, look no further than these Skinny Buffalo Chicken Bites! They are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and a fraction of the calories compared to traditional buffalo chicken recipes. With a delightful crunch on the outside and a creamy, spicy filling, these bites are sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: These bites are a lighter version of classic buffalo chicken, using fat-free cream cheese and baked instead of fried.
• Quick Prep: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy hot sauce and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner – everyone will love them!

What You’ll Need

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/3 cup favorite hot sauce
• 3 1/2 oz. fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (you won’t use all of it)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cups Corn Flakes cereal, crushed

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients smoothly.
• Baking Sheet: To bake your chicken bites until golden and crispy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the eggs and ensure a smooth batter.

Make Skinny Buffalo Chicken Bites: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, hot sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

In separate bowls, place the all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, and crushed Corn Flakes. This will be your breading station.

Step 4: Shape the Bites

Using your hands, take a small amount of the chicken mixture and shape it into bite-sized balls. You can make them as big or as small as you like, but aim for about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 5: Bread the Bites

Roll each chicken bite in the all-purpose flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the crushed Corn Flakes, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 6: Bake

Place the breaded chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with extra hot sauce or your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your delicious Skinny Buffalo Chicken Bites!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add some garlic powder or onion powder to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
• In the fall, mix in some pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.
• In the summer, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a refreshing flavor.
• For a cheesy variation, mix in some crumbled feta or blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Too Dry: If your chicken bites are dry, make sure not to overbake them. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as they are golden.
• Not Crispy Enough: Ensure your Corn Flakes are crushed finely and press them into the bites to create a better crust.
• Filling Falls Out: If the filling leaks out while baking, make sure to fully coat the bites in flour, egg, and Corn Flakes to create a secure seal.
• Too Spicy: Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference. You can also mix in some ranch dressing for a milder flavor.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These bites can also be frozen! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my chicken bites falling apart?

If your chicken bites are falling apart, it could be due to not enough binding from the cream cheese or eggs. Ensure you mix the ingredients thoroughly and consider adding a bit more cream cheese to help hold everything together.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella provides a mild, gooey texture.

How can I make these bites gluten-free?

To make these bites gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free corn flakes for the coating.

What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a creamy avocado dip. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

These Skinny Buffalo Chicken Bites are not just a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo chicken recipes; they are a fantastic way to indulge in bold flavors without the guilt. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty snack, these bites are sure to please. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a plate of these delicious morsels ready in no time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate buffalo chicken experience!