Save Crunchy, spicy chicken bites coated in a zesty pretzel crust and tossed in tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or game day snack.
The first time I made these, my friends couldn&t believe how much flavor came from crushed pretzels and hot sauce. They disappeared in minutes at our last get-together.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm (1 in) cubes
- Coating: 100 g (2 cups) salted pretzels, crushed into coarse crumbs, 50 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Buffalo Sauce: 60 ml (1/4 cup) hot sauce (e.g., Frank&s RedHot), 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted, 1 tsp honey
- For Serving: Celery sticks, cut into batons, Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Prepare Oven & Pan:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- Prepare Bowls:
- Place flour in one bowl, whisk eggs in another, and combine pretzel crumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and black pepper in a third.
- Coat Chicken:
- Toss chicken cubes in flour, dip in egg, then roll in pretzel mixture and press gently.
- Bake Chicken:
- Arrange coated chicken on tray and spray lightly with oil. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 74°C/165°F).
- Make Buffalo Sauce:
- Whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and honey in a large bowl.
- Toss & Serve:
- Add baked chicken to buffalo sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately with celery sticks and dressing.
Save My kids love helping crush the pretzels for this recipe. It&s now a staple for our family game nights.
Required Tools
Baking tray, parchment paper, mixing bowls, whisk, tongs, measuring cups and spoons make prep and clean-up a breeze.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and milk. Pretzels and sauces may have traces of nuts or soy so check labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 350 calories, 11 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein.
Save Serve these spicy bites fresh from the oven for the ultimate crunch. They&re always a crowd-pleaser and vanish fast!
Kitchen Guide
- → What makes the pretzel crust extra crunchy?
The crushed salted pretzels create a coarse, crunchy coating that crisps up beautifully during baking.
- → Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pretzels and flour for a gluten-free option, and ensure all sauces are safe for your diet.
- → How spicy are these buffalo bites?
The heat level is moderate, but you can adjust cayenne and hot sauce amounts for your desired spiciness.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Swap the chicken cubes for cauliflower florets and proceed with the same coating and baking method.
- → What is the best dip to serve with these bites?
Ranch or blue cheese dressing pairs well. They balance the spicy tang and add a creamy touch.
- → Can these bites be made ahead?
Bake and cool the bites, then reheat briefly before tossing them in buffalo sauce for best texture and flavor.