Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe

Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites are a delicious appetizer that combines tender chicken with a spicy, flavorful coating. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are perfect for snacking, serving at parties, or even enjoying as a main dish. The recipe brings together juicy chicken, a crispy coating, and just the right amount of heat to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, these chicken bites are sure to become a favorite.

Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe Ingredients:

To make these tasty Spicy Chicken Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• Optional: Hot sauce for an extra kick

Equipment Needed:

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the coating.
• Tongs: To handle the chicken pieces while frying.
• Deep frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the chicken bites.
• Paper towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried chicken.
• Whisk: For mixing the dry ingredients.

Detailed Instructions of Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe:

Let’s walk through the steps to make these delicious Spicy Chicken Bites:

1.Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for extra tenderness.

2.Prepare the Coating: In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will be the crispy coating for your chicken bites.

3.Heat the Oil: Pour the oil into a deep frying pan or deep fryer. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chicken bites. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

4.Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Press the coating onto the chicken to help it stick better.

5.Fry the Chicken Bites: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain.

6.Serve: Your Spicy Chicken Bites are now ready to serve! You can enjoy them on their own, or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

What to Serve with Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites?

These chicken bites are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some ideas:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or honey mustard for a delicious contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the fried chicken.
• French Fries: For a classic combination, serve with a side of crispy fries.
• Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy flavor of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the spicy bites.

What Does the Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe Taste Like?

Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites are packed with flavor. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the coating is crispy and full of spices. The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist and adds a slight tang, while the blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, gives it a nice kick. The heat is present but not overwhelming, making these bites enjoyable for those who like a bit of spice in their food. The overall taste is savory, with a hint of smokiness from the paprika and a satisfying crunch in every bite.

How Healthy is This Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe?

While these Spicy Chicken Bites are undeniably delicious, they are also fried, which means they are higher in fat and calories. However, you can make some adjustments to lighten them up:

• Bake Instead of Fry: You can bake the chicken bites in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until crispy, to reduce the fat content.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to add more fiber.
• Skip the Buttermilk: For a lower-calorie option, you can skip the buttermilk marinade and use an egg wash instead.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
• Keep the Oil Hot: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Serve Immediately: These bites are best served hot and crispy, so try to serve them right after frying.

Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recip Variations:

Here are a few ways you can change up this recipe:

1.Buffalo Chicken Bites: Toss the fried chicken bites in buffalo sauce for an extra spicy and tangy version.

2.Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Drizzle the chicken bites with honey and garlic sauce for a sweet and savory twist.

3.Cajun Chicken Bites: Add Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture for a Southern-inspired flavor.

Conclusion of Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe:

Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites are a fantastic appetizer or snack that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. They’re crispy, flavorful, and have just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. While they’re a bit indulgent, you can make them healthier with a few tweaks, such as baking instead of frying. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick meal, these chicken bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.

5 FAQs About Longhorn Spicy Chicken Bites Recipe

1.Can I make these chicken bites in an air fryer?

• Yes, you can air fry the chicken bites at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

2.How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

3.Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier, though they may take a bit longer to cook.

4.Is it possible to make these bites less spicy?

• Yes, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

5.Can I freeze the chicken bites?

• Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken bites. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.