Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are the perfect treat for any gathering or game day. These flavorful bites are marinated in zesty pickle juice, giving them a unique taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy blue cheese sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging during movie night, these chicken bites will surely impress your guests and elevate your snacking experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious chicken bites in no time!
• Bursting with Flavor – The pickle brine infuses the chicken with a tangy kick, while the creamy blue cheese sauce adds richness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these bites are always a hit.
• Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters will love these crunchy chicken bites, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or as part of a main dish alongside your favorite sides.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help ensure that everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Ziploc bag
• Whisk
• Toothpicks

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan – A deep frying pan is key for achieving that golden-brown crispiness on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Using separate bowls for flour, egg, and cornflake coating keeps your breading process organized and efficient.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

• Boneless skinless chicken thigh or breast (I love a thigh but either would work)
• Pickle juice + pickle chips
• Dill
• Sea salt
• Pepper

For the Coating

• Corn flakes
• Flour
• Egg

For the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp of sour cream or yogurt
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Chopped chives

Additional Items

• Fry oil
• Toothpicks

How to Make Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to a bowl.
2. Pour pickle juice and dill over top and let marinate for at least an hour or overnight.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying

1. Add cornflakes to a Ziploc bag and pound until they become large crumbs.
2. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, another with corn flakes, and a third with whisked egg.
3. Heat fry oil in a deep pan until it reaches 350°F.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Working in small batches, coat each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with cornflake mixture.
2. Carefully place coated chicken pieces into hot oil without overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and outside is browned and crispy.
4. Transfer cooked pieces to a rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Blue Cheese Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, sea salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy

1. Take a piece of fried chicken, add a dollop of blue cheese sauce on top along with a pickle chip using toothpicks to secure them together.
2. Repeat with remaining pieces of chicken and serve immediately! Enjoy your tasty Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Serving Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce is all about enhancing flavors and creating a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

On a Platter

• Arrange the chicken bites on a large platter with dipping sauce in the center for easy sharing during gatherings.

With Fresh Veggies

• Serve alongside carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and celery for a refreshing crunch that complements the savory bites.

As Sliders

• Place chicken bites in mini buns with lettuce and a drizzle of blue cheese sauce for an exciting twist on sliders.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create fun tacos filled with chicken bites, shredded cabbage, and a sprinkle of dill for extra flavor.

With Pickle Chips

• Garnish each bite with pickle chips to enhance the tangy flavor profile and provide an extra crunch.

As Appetizers

• Skewer chicken bites on toothpicks for easy serving as finger foods at parties or game day celebrations.

How to Perfect Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Perfecting your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh boneless skinless thighs or breasts will enhance the flavor and texture of your bites.
• Marinate Longer: For more intense pickle flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight instead of just one hour.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil stays around 350°F for crispy, golden-brown chicken. Use a thermometer for best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Add garlic powder or paprika to the cornflake coating for an additional flavor kick.
• Serve Immediately: These bites taste best fresh from the fryer, so serve them right after cooking for maximum crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Coleslaw – A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the blue cheese sauce.
2. Sweet Potato Fries – The sweetness of these fries pairs beautifully with the savory chicken bites, making them an excellent choice.
3. Potato Salad – A chilled potato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken bites while adding heartiness.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and sea salt offer a delightful bitterness that cuts through richness.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn enhances summer vibes and adds sweetness that works well with pickle flavors.
6. Baked Beans – A side of baked beans brings in sweetness and depth that complements the tanginess of the chicken bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Neglecting the Marinade Time: Marinating for less than an hour can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy bites. Fry in small batches to keep them crispy.
• Skipping the Coating Steps: Failing to properly coat your chicken in flour, egg, and cornflakes can lead to uneven texture. Ensure each piece is well-coated for that perfect crunch.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can result in undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your flour or coating mixture will affect the overall taste. Don’t skip adding salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: A rushed sauce can lack depth of flavor. Take your time mixing the blue cheese and sour cream for a creamy consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

• Freeze cooked chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium heat and microwave in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed up.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat, turning occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce.

What can I substitute instead of blue cheese?

You can use feta cheese or a sharp cheddar as alternatives if you prefer different flavors.

How do I make these chicken bites gluten-free?

Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cornflakes for coating.

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes! Feel free to swap out chicken with turkey or even beef for different variations.

Are Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce healthy?

These bites can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, especially if you opt for baking over frying.

How long does it take to prepare?

Including marinating time, expect around 2 hours from start to finish, but active cooking is only about 30 minutes.

Can I customize the dipping sauce?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like parsley or garlic powder for extra flavor variation in your creamy blue cheese sauce.

Final Thoughts

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce offer an exciting twist on traditional chicken bites. Their crispy exterior combined with tangy pickle flavor makes them perfect for any occasion. Customize them with different spices or dipping sauces to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a hit at your next gathering!