Crispy, zesty, and endlessly snackable, Buffalo Popcorn Chicken Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or game day treat! These bite-sized chicken nuggets are expertly seasoned with a blend of garlic, onion, and paprika, then triple-coated in flour, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs for an irresistibly crunchy exterior. Fried to golden perfection and tossed in a buttery, tangy buffalo sauce, these savory morsels pack just the right amount of heat. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. Serve hot with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear! Perfect keywords for SEO include: buffalo popcorn chicken, crispy chicken bites, spicy appetizers, and easy game day snacks.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg until well combined.
Place breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Set the coated pieces on a plate or tray.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, for 4–5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat and mix in the buffalo sauce until smooth. Remove from heat.
Toss the fried chicken bites in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.
Calories |
8463 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 787.6 g | 1010% | |
| Saturated Fat | 129.5 g | 648% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 704 mg | 235% | |
| Sodium | 7907 mg | 344% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.6 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.4 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.2 g | ||
| Protein | 184.9 g | 370% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.6 mcg | 23% | |
| Calcium | 486 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 2120 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.