introduction
This simple recipe makes small, spicy fried chicken pieces. You will get a crunchy crust and a hot, smoky flavor. It is fast and feels like a treat. If you like quick chicken ideas, try this with other easy meals like quick easy chicken meals for meal plans.
why make this recipe
Make this when you want bold flavor with little fuss. The spice mix is strong but easy to change. You can serve it for snacks, a weeknight dinner, or a party. People who love spicy food will enjoy it. For other tasty chicken uses, also see ways to use rotisserie chicken for more ideas.
how to make Nashville Hot Chicken Bites
This is a simple fry method. Marinate the chicken to keep it moist, then coat and fry until golden. Use a thermometer if you want to be sure the chicken is cooked. For a related stuffed idea, look at a comfort recipe like crack chicken hot pockets.
Ingredients :
- Chicken thighs
- Buttermilk
- Flour
- Cayenne pepper
- Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
- Oil (for frying)
Directions :
- Marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the marinated chicken in the seasoned flour.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken bites until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
how to serve Nashville Hot Chicken Bites
Serve hot with pickles and white bread or with fries. You can also place them on buns for small sliders. Offer a cooling dip like ranch or plain yogurt to balance the heat.
how to store Nashville Hot Chicken Bites
Let the bites cool to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crisp. Do not store at room temperature for long.
tips to make Nashville Hot Chicken Bites
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating so the coating sticks well.
- Do not crowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
- Use a thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) inside the thickest piece.
- Drain on paper towels briefly, then rest a minute so they stay juicy.
variation (if any)
- Make it milder: cut the cayenne in half and add smoked paprika for flavor without too much heat.
- Make it extra spicy: add more cayenne or a dash of chili powder.
- Oven option: bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes. Cut breasts into bite-size pieces and watch the time, as breast cooks faster.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: At least 30 minutes. For better flavor and tenderness, marinate up to 4 hours in the fridge.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes. Toss in oil and bake on a rack at 425°F (220°C) until golden and cooked through.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging.
Q: How do I make the coating extra crispy?
A: Double-dip: coat with flour, then buttermilk again, then flour once more before frying.
Conclusion
For a clear step-by-step guide and a similar recipe, check this Nashville Hot Chicken Bites recipe for more tips and photos.
Print
Nashville Hot Chicken Bites
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
Spicy fried chicken pieces with a crunchy crust and smoky flavor, perfect for snacks or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken thighs
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 1 cup Flour
- 2 tbsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- Oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the marinated chicken in the seasoned flour.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken bites until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
For extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken before frying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Nashville Hot Chicken, fried chicken, spicy chicken bites, quick chicken meals