There’s something universally comforting about crispy chicken. Whether served as a game-day snack, party appetizer, or family dinner staple, Homemade Crispy Chicken Bites deliver on every front: golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor in every bite. The best part? They’re simple to make — and way better than takeout!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the chicken:
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1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
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1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice as substitute)
For the coating:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon pepper
For frying:
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Vegetable oil or canola oil (enough to deep-fry or pan-fry)
Prep & Cook Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Marinating (optional) | 30 min–2 hrs |
| Cooking | 20 minutes |
| Total time | ~45–60 mins |
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
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Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
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Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Pour over the buttermilk, stir to coat, and cover. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
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In a large shallow bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all spices.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
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Pour about 2–3 inches of oil into a heavy pot or deep pan.
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Heat over medium-high heat until oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
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Remove chicken pieces from marinade, letting excess drip off.
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Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
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Optional: For extra crunch, double dip—back into buttermilk, then again into the flour.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
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Carefully add chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd).
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Fry 3–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Internal temp should be 165°F (74°C).
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Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Step 6: Serve Hot
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Serve immediately with your favorite dips like honey mustard, ranch, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~410 |
| Protein | ~34 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20 g |
| Fat | ~22 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sodium | ~650 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on oil absorption and portion size.
Pro Tips for Crispy Perfection
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Cornstarch is the secret weapon: It helps create a super light, crisp coating that stays crunchy.
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Double dredging = extra crunch: For restaurant-style texture, coat the chicken twice.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: It drops the oil temperature and makes the bites greasy.
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Use a thermometer: This helps maintain the right oil temp (350°F) for crispy results.
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Rest on a rack: Avoid sogginess by cooling fried bites on a wire rack, not paper towels.
Serving Ideas
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As an appetizer: Serve on a platter with assorted dipping sauces.
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In a meal: Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or mac & cheese.
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In a wrap: Tuck them in warm tortillas with lettuce and ranch dressing.
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On game night: Serve with buffalo sauce and blue cheese dip for a crowd-pleaser.
Storing & Reheating
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Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to re-crisp. Avoid microwaving, which makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Crispy Chicken Bites are everything you crave in comfort food — savory, crunchy, tender, and endlessly versatile. With this recipe, you can skip the drive-thru and make restaurant-worthy bites right in your kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or impressing guests at your next party, this dish delivers. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your flavor profile — go spicy, cheesy, or even toss in a tangy glaze.