Crispy Jalapeno Chicken Bites

Name: Crispy Jalapeno Chicken Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 2 jalapenos, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil, for frying; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

I love indulging in crispy jalapeno chicken bites—they're the perfect appetizer for any gathering! These bites combine juicy chicken with a spicy kick from jalapenos, all coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Whether served with a zesty dipping sauce or alongside fresh veggies, these bites are always a hit. Plus, they are a way to bring some heat into our lives without overwhelming our taste buds.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:29:30.366Z

Making crispy jalapeno chicken bites has become a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with different spices and methods, and I found that marinating the chicken in buttermilk adds a delicious tenderness. I also like to add a touch of smoked paprika for a slight depth of flavor that complements the heat from the jalapenos perfectly.

This recipe shines when you fry them to a golden brown. It's essential to let them rest briefly on a paper towel after frying to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy for longer. Pairing them with a cool dipping sauce balances the heat beautifully, making these bites irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Bites
        A delightful blend of spicy jalapeno and tender chicken
Crunchy coating that perfectly contrasts the juicy meat
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of crispy jalapeno chicken bites lies in the chicken itself. Selecting high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures tenderness and quick cooking. The buttermilk in the marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize it, making each bite exceptionally juicy. For extra flavor, consider using buttermilk made from whole milk, as its richness further enhances the taste.

The combination of panko breadcrumbs and spices in the coating plays a crucial role in achieving that desired crunch. Panko, with its airy texture, creates a lighter, crunchier crust compared to traditional breadcrumbs. Adding finely chopped jalapenos not only infuses the coating with heat but also adds a pop of color and texture that enhances the overall eating experience.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When frying the chicken bites, maintaining the right oil temperature is essential to prevent sogginess. Ideally, the oil should be heated to about 350°F (175°C); this ensures the coating crisps up quickly while the chicken cooks through. If the oil is too cold, the bites will absorb more oil and become greasy, compromising the texture. I recommend using a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy, and frying in small batches to keep the temperature consistent.

After frying, let the chicken bites drain on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps remove excess oil, allowing the bites to retain their crispy texture. If you're cooking a large amount, an oven can help keep the bites warm while you fry the rest. Set the oven to a low heat (around 200°F/93°C) and place the fried bites on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to maintain their crunch.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
2 jalapenos, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying

For Dipping Sauce (optional)

1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat.

Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Fry the Chicken Bites

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken bites in batches and fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Enjoy Your Chicken Bites!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can double coat the chicken pieces by dipping them back into buttermilk and then back into the breadcrumb mixture before frying.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the chicken bites correctly is key to maintaining their texture. Allow the bites to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to restore their crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

For a longer storage option, consider freezing the cooked bites. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat straight from the freezer in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

These crispy jalapeno chicken bites are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or as part of a taco night, adding them to tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, they make for a fantastic party appetizer, served with a selection of dips such as the zesty dipping sauce recipe provided or even a spicy salsa for an extra kick.

Consider incorporating different dipping sauces to cater to varying taste preferences. A honey mustard or a chipotle aioli can complement the spiciness of the jalapenos beautifully. You can also prepare a cooler, creamy dip, such as tzatziki, to further balance the heat. Get creative with the garnish—fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lime zest adds a refreshing touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these chicken bites instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They might not be as crispy as the fried version.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How can I make these bites less spicy?

You can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping them to reduce their heat.

→ What dipping sauce pairs well with these chicken bites?

A creamy ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a sweet chili sauce works wonderfully with these bites.