These Southern-Style Fried Chicken Bites are crispy, golden, and packed with classic Southern flavor. Juicy on the inside with a perfectly seasoned crunch on the outside, they’re ideal for appetizers, game day snacks, or an easy comfort-food dinner.
Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Oil, for frying
Instructions
Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
Prepare the coating
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Heat the oil
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
Coat the chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Fry until golden
Fry the chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Drain and serve
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
✨ Tip: Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or hot sauce for dipping—and don’t forget a side of biscuits or coleslaw!
