Every dish has its perfect match. When it comes to Bojangles Buffalo Bites, there are many flavors that can enhance your dining experience. A fresh garden salad adds crunch and keeps the meal light. A side of crispy, seasoned fries complements the savory heat of the bites beautifully.
Don’t forget the ever-popular coleslaw; its creamy texture counters the spicy kick, creating a satisfying balance. With these options, you can’t go wrong.
Let’s dive into what makes Bojangles Buffalo Bites so special, and why you’ll want to make this dish a staple in your home.
Every time I think of comfort food, I picture those golden, crispy bites. Bojangles Buffalo Bites stand out because they offer a unique combination: juicy chicken and a fiery flavor. They remind me of family gatherings, where a plate full of these bites would disappear in minutes. Today, I’ll take you on a journey through this amazing dish.
With my experience as a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve crafted a recipe that brings all the joy of those beloved Buffalo Bites right into your kitchen. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, they are perfect for a weeknight meal or a party snack.
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What Are Bojangles Buffalo Bites?
Bojangles Buffalo Bites are tender, boneless chicken pieces, coated in a spicy, bold sauce. It’s a popular dish among fans of spicy food. The bites are known for their crunchiness outside and juiciness inside, offering a flavor explosion that can satisfy even the fiercest cravings.
These nuggets don’t just taste great; they can be paired with various sides, making them a versatile choice for anyone wanting something delicious and easy to make at home.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
Here’s why my Buffalo Bites recipe deserves a spot in your meal plan:
1. Simple Ingredients
The recipe uses common pantry staples like chicken, spices, and hot sauce. No need to hunt for exotic ingredients.
2. Quick Preparation
You’ll appreciate the time-saving element. In just 30 minutes, you can have hot, crispy Buffalo Bites ready to serve.
3. Customizable Heat Levels
Depending on your spice tolerance, you can adjust the hot sauce. This makes the dish approachable for everyone, from the spice novice to the heat enthusiast.
4. Great for Meal Prep
This dish stores well. You can make a large batch for snacks or meals throughout the week. It maintains its flavor and texture even after reheating.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Before we delve into cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Here’s the list:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for paleo)
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, patted dry and cut into 2″ pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a paleo option)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- ½ cup Texas Pete Original Hot Sauce, or your favorite hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon honey (for a subtle sweetness to balance the heat)
How to Make Bojangles Buffalo Bites
Let’s roll up our sleeves and whip up some Buffalo Bites! Trust me; you will love how easy it is.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into 2″ pieces. Make sure they are all about the same size for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial. The less moisture you have, the crispier those bites become.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in this dry mix until fully coated. This creates a layer that gives you that coveted crunch.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry them until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Ease them onto a plate covered with paper towels to soak up excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the Frank’s RedHot Sauce and Texas Pete Sauce, stirring until well combined. Stir in the honey to balance the heat. This sauce is the star of the show, so make sure you get it right!
Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce
Add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce directly in the saucepan. Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss until every piece is well-coated. The heat from the chicken will thicken the sauce slightly, making it stick better.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve your Bojangles Buffalo Bites hot. Pair them with your choice of sides and watch as they disappear.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. It helps avoid dry or undercooked chicken.
- Keep the Oil Hot: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If the bites are cramped, they will steam rather than fry.
- Baking Option: If you want a healthier version, try baking them at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Flavor Boosts: Adding a splash of vinegar to the sauce gives it a tangy note that can elevate the flavor.
- Extra Crispy: For even more crunch, let the coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes before frying; this allows the coating to set.
Nutrition Information
One serving of Bojangles Buffalo Bites (around 4 pieces) has approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
Note that these numbers might vary based on cooking methods.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to two months.
Just ensure they cool down completely before freezing to maintain texture.
What Sides Would Complement Bojangles Buffalo Bites?
Pairing sides can make or break your meal. Here are some options:
1. crispy fries
Golden, crunchy fries are a classic pairing. They provide an irresistible combination of heat and carbohydrate that everyone will love.
2. creamy coleslaw
Coleslaw’s cool creaminess works magic against spicy bites. It adds texture and a hint of sweetness, a perfect counterbalance.
3. celery and ranch dip
A classic in buffalo cuisine, celery sticks and ranch is a perfect match. The fresh crunch of the celery paired with cool ranch dressing is delightful.
What Alternatives Can You Use for Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Sometimes, you reach for an ingredient and realize you’re out. Don’t worry! Here are some alternatives:
1. Chicken Options
If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thighs or even turkey. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. Cornstarch Substitutes
In place of cornstarch, use all-purpose flour or potato starch for coating.
3. Hot Sauce Swaps
Feel free to use any hot sauce you prefer, like Sriracha or a homemade chili sauce if you want to add your own flair.
4. Butter Alternatives
Coconut oil or vegan butter can easily replace traditional butter for a healthier or dairy-free version.
Bojangles Buffalo Bites Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for paleo
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, patted dry and cut into 2″ pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a paleo option
- 2 teaspoons sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- 1/2 cup Texas Pete Original Hot Sauce or your favorite hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon honey for a subtle sweetness to balance the heat
Instructions
- Let’s roll up our sleeves and whip up some Buffalo Bites! Trust me; you will love how easy it is.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by cutting your chicken into 2″ pieces. Make sure they are all about the same size for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial. The less moisture you have, the crispier those bites become.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in this dry mix until fully coated. This creates a layer that gives you that coveted crunch.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry them until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Ease them onto a plate covered with paper towels to soak up excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the Frank’s RedHot Sauce and Texas Pete Sauce, stirring until well combined. Stir in the honey to balance the heat. This sauce is the star of the show, so make sure you get it right!
Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce
- Add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce directly in the saucepan. Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss until every piece is well-coated. The heat from the chicken will thicken the sauce slightly, making it stick better.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
- Serve your Bojangles Buffalo Bites hot. Pair them with your choice of sides and watch as they disappear.
Notes
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. It helps avoid dry or undercooked chicken.
- Keep the Oil Hot: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If the bites are cramped, they will steam rather than fry.
- Baking Option: If you want a healthier version, try baking them at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Flavor Boosts: Adding a splash of vinegar to the sauce gives it a tangy note that can elevate the flavor.
- Extra Crispy: For even more crunch, let the coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes before frying; this allows the coating to set.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Bojangles buffalo bites in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Coat the chicken as usual and then cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
2. What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
Consider ranch dressing, blue cheese, or even a spicy aioli for dipping. These sauces complement the bites perfectly and invite fun flavors.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just remember, if frying, do it in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and get that crunch.
4. How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply replace the cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your hot sauces are gluten-free, which most are!
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prep the chicken and coating ahead of time. Just wait to fry and toss them in sauce until you’re ready to serve.
6. Is it healthy?
While they are a treat, these bites offer protein and can be made healthier by adjusting coating and cooking methods.
Conclusion
Bojangles Buffalo Bites are an exciting dish that everyone can enjoy. They capture the joy of great flavors with simple ingredients, making them a go-to for weeknight meals or gatherings. You can enjoy the delicious crunch and heat while knowing exactly what goes into them.
Whether paired with salty fries or creamy coleslaw, they are sure to satisfy any craving. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
