Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites have become my go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal. I still remember the first time I tried making these, hoping to capture that perfect balance of spicy buffalo kick and savory garlic. The aroma that filled my kitchen as they simmered was amazing – a mix of tangy sauce and roasted garlic. If you’ve ever wondered how to make buffalo garlic chicken bites that are both tender and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place. This dish is perfect as a fun weeknight dinner or even as a crowd-pleasing garlic buffalo chicken appetizer. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
You’ll adore these bites for so many reasons:
- The flavor explosion of spicy buffalo sauce and rich garlic is irresistible.
- They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights.
- Compared to traditional wings, these offer a leaner protein option.
- This recipe is wonderfully budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
- Kids and adults alike will devour these easy buffalo garlic chicken bites.
- You can feel great about serving these homemade buffalo garlic chicken bites, knowing exactly what’s in them.
- They’re incredibly versatile, working as a main dish or a party appetizer.
Ingredients for Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
Here’s everything you need to create these amazing buffalo chicken bites with garlic:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a foundational garlic flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smoky depth
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of heat
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – crucial for that signature garlic punch
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce – the star of our spicy sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – to smooth out the buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – optional, for a fresh garnish
- 8 ounces rotini or pasta of choice – the perfect base for our bites
- 1 cup cheese sauce – for a creamy, comforting element
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for pasta) – to season the pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning – adds herbaceous notes to the pasta
- 3 stalks celery (cut into sticks) – for a fresh, crunchy contrast
- Optional: blue cheese crumbles or ranch drizzle – for extra flavor if you like!
How to Make Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
Creating these delicious bites is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a fantastic meal.
- Step 1: Get your pasta cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 8 ounces rotini or pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case.
- Step 2: Prepare the chicken. Pat your 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is key for getting a good sear! In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Make sure each piece is coated.
- Step 3: Sear the chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, add the 3 cloves minced garlic to the pan and stir constantly until fragrant – you’ll smell that amazing garlic aroma!
- Step 4: Create the sauce. Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and the 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce to the pan with the chicken and garlic. Stir everything together gently, letting the sauce simmer and thicken for about 1–2 minutes. This is where the magic happens for your spicy garlic chicken bites recipe.
- Step 5: Prepare the pasta base. While the chicken is saucing, gently warm your 1 cup cheese sauce in a separate saucepan over low heat. Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until every piece is coated in creamy goodness. If it seems a little thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water.
- Step 6: Assemble and serve. Plate a generous portion of the cheesy pasta. Top it with the saucy buffalo garlic chicken bites. Add the fresh 3 stalks celery cut into sticks on the side for a refreshing crunch. If you’re aiming for baked buffalo garlic chicken bites, you could transfer the sauced chicken to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes instead of simmering in the pan. Alternatively, for air fryer buffalo garlic chicken bites, air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway.
- Step 7: Garnish and enjoy! Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley if you like, or add optional blue cheese crumbles or a ranch drizzle. Serve immediately and savor every bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
Want to elevate your chicken bites? Try these expert tips for amazing flavor and texture every time:
- For extra crispy buffalo garlic chicken bites, consider pan-frying the chicken in a bit more oil until golden brown before adding the sauce.
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry! This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing soggy bites.
- Taste and adjust the sauce before tossing the chicken. You might want a little more heat, a touch of sweetness from honey, or a creamy element from butter.
- Using room temperature chicken helps it cook more evenly.
What’s the secret to perfect buffalo garlic chicken bites?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Searing the chicken properly first, then coating it in that tangy, garlicky buffalo sauce, ensures every bite is packed with taste. Getting them perfectly sauced without losing that desirable slight crisp is key. For more on achieving perfect searing, check out this guide to pan-searing.
Can I make buffalo garlic chicken bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken by cubing and seasoning it a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to cook and sauce the chicken bites just before serving. For more information on food safety and storage, consult the FDA’s food safety charts.
How do I avoid common mistakes with buffalo garlic chicken bites?
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure browning. Also, don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Finally, be careful not to let the sauce boil aggressively after adding it, as it can separate.
Best Ways to Serve Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
These versatile bites are fantastic served in a few delicious ways. For a hearty weeknight meal, plate them over creamy pasta as the recipe suggests, alongside crunchy celery sticks. They also make an incredible appetizer, perfect for game day or parties. If you’re looking for something similar but perhaps a bit more substantial, consider serving them alongside a side like this garlic buffalo chicken tenders recipe for a full flavor experience with a slightly different presentation. They pair wonderfully with cooling sides like coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the heat. For more serving ideas, visit our homepage.
Nutrition Facts for Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each one offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
- Calories: 530
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on nutritional information, you can refer to our privacy policy.
How to Store and Reheat Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
Even though these bites are best enjoyed fresh, they store surprisingly well! Once they’ve cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay good in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you have a lot left over, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. For the quickest reheat, pop them in the microwave for a minute or two. However, for the best texture, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven or air fryer at around 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and slightly crispy again. This helps revive that delicious texture, making them almost as good as when they were first made. For any questions about our storage recommendations, please visit our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites
What are buffalo garlic chicken bites?
These are bite-sized pieces of chicken, typically breast or thigh meat, that are coated in a flavorful sauce. The sauce is a delicious combination of classic buffalo wing sauce and savory garlic, creating a unique spicy and tangy flavor profile. They are often served as an appetizer or a main course.
Can I make buffalo garlic chicken wing bites with different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken breast for a leaner option, you can easily substitute chicken thighs. Thighs tend to be more moist and flavorful, so they are a great choice if you prefer a richer taste. Just ensure you cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How do I make my buffalo garlic chicken bites extra crispy?
For that coveted crispiness, try coating the chicken pieces in a light dredge of flour seasoned with salt and pepper before searing them. Alternatively, you can bake them on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet at a higher temperature, around 400°F (200°C), for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This allows air to circulate for a crispier exterior. You can find more tips on achieving crispy chicken by checking out our about me page for inspiration.
What are some good dipping sauces for buffalo garlic chicken bites?
Besides the sauce they’re coated in, these bites are fantastic with classic accompaniments. Creamy ranch dressing or cool blue cheese dressing are perfect for balancing the heat. A simple garlic aioli or even a drizzle of honey mustard can also complement the flavors beautifully. For more information on our terms of use, please visit terms of use.
Variations of Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative with these fun twists!
- Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Chicken Bites: For a milder, richer flavor, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese and a teaspoon of garlic powder directly into the buffalo sauce mixture. This creates delicious garlic parmesan buffalo chicken bites that are incredibly savory.
- Air Fryer Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites: Skip the skillet! Toss the seasoned chicken pieces with a little oil and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, toss them in the prepared buffalo garlic sauce for quick, crispy results.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken Bite Variation: If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce. This gives you truly chicken bites buffalo style garlic with an intense kick.
- Baked Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites: For a hands-off approach, spread the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Toss with the sauce once cooked.
Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites: 25 Min Feast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe features juicy chicken tossed in a spicy garlic buffalo sauce, served over creamy pasta with crisp celery sticks. It’s a quick, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or game days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
- 8 ounces rotini or pasta of choice
- 1 cup cheese sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for pasta)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- 3 stalks celery (cut into sticks)
- Optional: blue cheese crumbles or ranch drizzle
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
- Lower heat. Add butter and buffalo sauce to the pan. Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- In a saucepan, warm the cheese sauce with pepper and basil. Add drained pasta and stir to coat.
- Plate cheesy pasta, top with buffalo garlic chicken bites, and add celery sticks on the side.
- Garnish with parsley or extras like blue cheese, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry helps it sear better and stay juicy.
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce—or balance it with a drizzle of honey or ranch.
- For a homemade cheese sauce, melt 1 cup shredded cheddar with 1/3 cup milk and 1 tablespoon butter over low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Skillet, Boil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1.5 cups (chicken + pasta + celery)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg