Buffalo chicken nuggets are a crowd-pleaser, combining the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the crispy texture of chicken nuggets. Paired with a cool, creamy blue cheese dressing, they create the perfect balance of flavors. This dish is ideal for game days, parties, or a delicious family dinner. Ready to dive into a mouthwatering experience? Let’s get started!
Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Buffalo chicken nuggets have become a staple in American cuisine, beloved for their bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Originating from the famous Buffalo wings, these nuggets offer the same spicy zest in a more convenient, bite-sized form.
History and Popularity:
The concept of Buffalo chicken nuggets draws inspiration from Buffalo wings, which were first created in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. Since then, the tangy and spicy buffalo sauce has become a favorite for many, leading to various adaptations, including nuggets. These nuggets are particularly popular for their versatility – they can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even main dishes.
Flavor Profile:
The key to buffalo chicken nuggets lies in their flavor profile. The buffalo sauce, typically made from hot sauce, butter, and a few seasonings, provides a tangy and spicy punch that coats the crispy nuggets perfectly. This combination creates an irresistible taste that is both fiery and savory.
Blue Cheese Dressing Pairing:
To complement the heat of the buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing is often served alongside. The creamy, tangy dressing not only balances the spiciness but also adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall experience. The pairing of these two elements – spicy nuggets and cool dressing – creates a harmonious blend that keeps people coming back for more.
Occasions and Uses:
Buffalo chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile. They are a hit at parties and gatherings, making for an easy-to-eat appetizer that pleases a crowd. They are also great for casual family dinners or as a snack while watching a game. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a go-to recipe for many occasions.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Buffalo chicken nuggets with blue cheese dressing, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients for both components. Here’s a detailed list to ensure you have everything you need before starting.
For the Buffalo Chicken Nuggets:
Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Cooking Oil:
Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
For the Blue Cheese Dressing:
Base:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Cheese:
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Flavorings:
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (to thin the dressing, if desired)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Preparation Tips:
Chicken:
Ensure the chicken pieces are uniformly sized for even cooking. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help the breading adhere better.
Breading Station:
Set up a breading station with separate bowls for the flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. This will streamline the breading process and keep it less messy.
Buffalo Sauce:
Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the hot sauce and add a bit more butter.
Blue Cheese Dressing:
For a smoother dressing, blend all ingredients except the blue cheese, then fold in the crumbles at the end. Let the dressing sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Equipment Needed
To ensure a smooth cooking process and achieve the best results for your Buffalo chicken nuggets with blue cheese dressing, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s a detailed list of the tools and equipment you’ll need:
For the Buffalo Chicken Nuggets:
Cutting Board and Knife:
A sturdy cutting board and a sharp chef’s knife for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mixing Bowls:
Three medium-sized bowls: one for the flour mixture, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs.
Tongs or Forks:
Tongs or forks for handling the chicken pieces during the breading and frying process to keep your hands clean and prevent cross-contamination.
Deep Fryer or Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot:
A deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot for frying the chicken nuggets. Ensure it’s deep enough to hold enough oil to submerge the nuggets.
Cooking Thermometer:
A cooking thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and ensure it stays around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
Wire Rack and Baking Sheet:
A wire rack set over a baking sheet for draining the fried chicken nuggets. This setup helps keep the nuggets crispy by allowing excess oil to drip away.
Slotted Spoon or Spider Skimmer:
A slotted spoon or spider skimmer for safely removing the chicken nuggets from the hot oil.
For the Blue Cheese Dressing:
Mixing Bowls:
A small to medium-sized mixing bowl for combining the ingredients of the blue cheese dressing.
Whisk or Fork:
A whisk or fork for mixing the dressing ingredients until smooth and well-combined.
Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the dressing ingredients.
General Tools:
Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Measuring cups and spoons for accurately measuring all ingredients.
Spatula or Mixing Spoon:
A spatula or mixing spoon for stirring and mixing ingredients as needed.
Blender or Food Processor (Optional):
If you prefer a smoother blue cheese dressing, a blender or food processor can be used to blend the ingredients before folding in the blue cheese crumbles.
Storage Containers:
Airtight storage containers for any leftover nuggets and blue cheese dressing to keep them fresh.
Preparation Tips:
Organize Your Workspace:
Before starting, gather all the equipment and ingredients. An organized workspace makes the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Preheat Oil:
If using a deep fryer or pot, start preheating the oil while you prepare the chicken nuggets. This will save time and ensure the oil is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to fry.
Safety First:
When frying, always be cautious of hot oil. Use long-handled tools like tongs and a spider skimmer to keep a safe distance from the oil.
Cleanup:
Line your workspace with paper towels or place the wire rack over a baking sheet to catch any drips and make cleanup easier.
Preparing the Chicken Nuggets
Creating the perfect Buffalo chicken nuggets involves several steps, from cutting the chicken to breading and frying. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare them to perfection.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Cutting the Chicken:
Start by rinsing the chicken breasts or thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
Seasoning the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with a bit of salt and pepper. This initial seasoning helps enhance the flavor of the chicken itself.
Step 2: Setting Up the Breading Station
Flour Mixture:
In the first bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix well.
Egg Mixture:
In the second bowl, beat 2 large eggs until smooth.
Breadcrumbs:
In the third bowl, place 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Breading the Chicken
Dredging in Flour:
Take each chicken piece and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Dipping in Egg:
Dip the floured chicken piece into the beaten eggs, coating it completely.
Coating with Breadcrumbs:
Finally, roll the egg-coated chicken piece in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the breaded chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
Step 4: Frying the Chicken Nuggets
Heating the Oil:
Pour vegetable or canola oil into a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot until it’s about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Frying:
Carefully add a few chicken pieces to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy nuggets. Fry the chicken pieces for 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon or spider skimmer to remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Preparing the Buffalo Sauce
Combining Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of hot sauce, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
Heating the Sauce:
Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is heated through. Remove from heat.
Coating the Nuggets:
Place the fried chicken nuggets in a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the nuggets and toss to coat them evenly.
Making the Blue Cheese Dressing
A delicious blue cheese dressing is the perfect complement to spicy Buffalo chicken nuggets. Its creamy and tangy flavor balances the heat of the buffalo sauce, creating a harmonious bite. Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect blue cheese dressing.
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Cheese:
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (to thin the dressing, if desired)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Step 2: Preparing the Dressing
Combining the Base Ingredients:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Stir until well blended.
Adding the Blue Cheese:
Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese. For a chunkier dressing, fold in all the crumbles. For a smoother texture, blend the dressing in a food processor or blender until smooth, then fold in some additional crumbles for texture.
Incorporating the Flavor Enhancers:
Add 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. These ingredients add tanginess to the dressing. Stir in the minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
Seasoning:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as blue cheese is naturally salty.
Adjusting Consistency:
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Blending the Dressing (Optional)
Smoother Texture:
If a smoother dressing is preferred, transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, then return to the bowl and fold in additional blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Step 4: Chilling the Dressing
Allowing Flavors to Meld:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dressing.
Garnishing (Optional):
Just before serving, you can garnish the dressing with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and additional flavor.
Step 5: Serving the Dressing
Accompanying the Nuggets:
Serve the chilled blue cheese dressing alongside the hot Buffalo chicken nuggets. It can be served in a small bowl for dipping or drizzled over the nuggets for a more integrated flavor.
Additional Uses:
This blue cheese dressing is versatile and can also be used as a salad dressing, a dip for veggies, or a sauce for other fried foods.
Cooking Directions
Cooking Buffalo chicken nuggets with blue cheese dressing involves several steps, from prepping the ingredients to frying the nuggets and making the dressing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure everything comes together perfectly.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Nuggets
Cutting and Seasoning the Chicken:
Rinse 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Setting Up the Breading Station:
In one bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. In a second bowl, beat 2 large eggs. In a third bowl, place 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs.
Breading the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Roll the egg-coated chicken piece in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Place the breaded chicken pieces on a plate or tray, ready for frying.
Step 2: Frying the Chicken Nuggets
Heating the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil or canola oil into a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, ensuring it’s about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Frying the Nuggets:
Carefully add a few chicken pieces to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry in batches if necessary. Fry the chicken pieces for 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon or spider skimmer to remove the nuggets from the oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Making the Buffalo Sauce
Combining the Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of hot sauce, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
Heating the Sauce:
Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is heated through. Remove from heat.
Coating the Nuggets:
Place the fried chicken nuggets in a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the nuggets and toss to coat them evenly.
Step 4: Making the Blue Cheese Dressing
Combining Base Ingredients:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Stir until well blended.
Adding Blue Cheese:
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese. For a smoother dressing, blend the mixture in a food processor or blender until smooth, then fold in additional crumbles for texture.
Incorporating Flavor Enhancers:
Add 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Thin the dressing with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or buttermilk if desired.
Chilling the Dressing:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serving
Plating the Nuggets:
Arrange the buffalo chicken nuggets on a serving platter. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving the Dressing:
Serve the blue cheese dressing in a small bowl alongside the nuggets for dipping or drizzle it over the nuggets.
Garnishing:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired for a pop of color and additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken nuggets with blue cheese dressing are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Here are some creative and practical serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Casual Gatherings and Parties
Platter Presentation:
Arrange the buffalo chicken nuggets on a large serving platter, with the blue cheese dressing in a bowl in the center. Garnish with celery sticks and carrot sticks around the nuggets for a fresh and colorful presentation. Provide toothpicks or small forks for easy grabbing.
Buffalo Chicken Nugget Sliders:
Serve the nuggets in small slider buns with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing and a few slices of pickles. This makes a perfect party snack or a light meal.
Buffet Style:
Set up a buffet with different dipping sauces alongside the blue cheese dressing, such as ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce. This allows guests to customize their flavors.
Family Dinners
Traditional Meal:
Serve the buffalo chicken nuggets as the main protein alongside side dishes like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. This creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Wraps and Tacos:
Create buffalo chicken nugget wraps or tacos by placing the nuggets in tortillas or flatbreads. Add lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of blue cheese dressing. This makes for a fun and interactive family dinner.
Kids’ Friendly Version:
For a kid-friendly meal, serve the nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces and a side of fries or sweet potato fries. Include a side of steamed vegetables for a nutritious touch.
Game Day or Movie Night
Finger Food Spread:
Serve the nuggets as part of a finger food spread, including items like mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers, and mini quesadillas. This setup is perfect for game day or movie night with friends and family.
Nachos with a Twist:
Create buffalo chicken nugget nachos by layering tortilla chips with nuggets, shredded cheese, and jalapeños. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then drizzle with blue cheese dressing and sprinkle with green onions.
Healthier Options
Salad Topping:
Use the buffalo chicken nuggets as a topping for a hearty salad. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and avocado. Add the nuggets and drizzle with blue cheese dressing for a healthier yet satisfying meal.
Vegetable Skewers:
Serve the nuggets on skewers with grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. This adds a nutritious and visually appealing element to the dish.
Additional Tips
Garnishing:
Garnish the buffalo chicken nuggets with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and a pop of color.
Serving Temperature:
Serve the nuggets hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor. If preparing in advance, keep them warm in the oven at a low temperature until ready to serve.
Accompaniments:
Pair the dish with refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or cold beer. The cool drinks help balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
Dietary Adjustments:
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. For a lower-calorie version, bake the nuggets instead of frying them, and use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the blue cheese dressing.
Storing Leftovers
Properly storing leftovers ensures that your Buffalo chicken nuggets and blue cheese dressing remain fresh and delicious for future enjoyment. Here’s how to store them and tips for reheating to maintain their quality.
Storing Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Cooling Down:
Allow the chicken nuggets to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
Storage Containers:
Place the cooled chicken nuggets in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. For best results, use a container that minimizes air exposure.
Refrigeration:
Store the chicken nuggets in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
If you plan to keep the nuggets for a longer period, consider freezing them. Arrange the cooled nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy. Flip the nuggets halfway through the heating process to ensure even crispiness.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
Microwave Method (Least Recommended):
Place the nuggets on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. This method may result in less crispy nuggets.
Storing Blue Cheese Dressing
Airtight Container:
Transfer the blue cheese dressing to an airtight container. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid works well to keep the dressing fresh.
Refrigeration:
Store the dressing in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Stirring Before Use:
Before using the stored dressing, give it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients and restore its creamy texture.
Reheating Blue Cheese Dressing
Room Temperature:
If the dressing has thickened in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Stir well to regain its smooth consistency.
Thinning the Dressing:
If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it with a small amount of milk or buttermilk. Add a teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Tips for Maintaining Quality
Separate Storage:
Store the chicken nuggets and blue cheese dressing separately to maintain their individual textures and flavors.
Avoid Overcrowding:
When storing the chicken nuggets, avoid overcrowding the container. This helps maintain their crispy texture.
Label and Date:
Label the storage containers with the date to keep track of how long they have been stored, ensuring you use them within the recommended timeframe.
Reheating from Frozen:
If reheating frozen nuggets, there’s no need to thaw them first. Simply increase the reheating time slightly in the oven or air fryer until they are hot and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your Buffalo chicken nuggets with blue cheese dressing helps you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information for both components of the dish.
Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
Serving Size:
The nutritional information is based on a serving size of 6-8 nuggets (approximately 150 grams).
Calories:
Each serving of Buffalo chicken nuggets contains approximately 300-350 calories. The exact number may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.
Macronutrients:
- Protein: Each serving provides around 25 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken.
- Carbohydrates: The breading contributes approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Fats: The nuggets contain about 15-20 grams of fat, mainly from the breading and frying process. Using panko breadcrumbs and lean chicken can help reduce the fat content.
Fiber:
The fiber content is relatively low, around 1-2 grams per serving, coming from the breadcrumbs and any added seasonings.
Sodium:
Buffalo chicken nuggets can be high in sodium, with each serving containing around 800-1000 milligrams. This comes from the seasoning, hot sauce, and other ingredients. Using low-sodium alternatives can help reduce this amount.
Vitamins and Minerals:
The nuggets provide small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium, mainly from the chicken.
Blue Cheese Dressing
Fiber:
The blue cheese dressing typically contains no fiber.
Sodium:
The sodium content is relatively high, around 300-400 milligrams per serving, due to the blue cheese and other seasonings. Using lower-sodium cheese or reducing the amount of salt can help manage sodium levels.
Vitamins and Minerals:
The dressing provides small amounts of calcium, vitamin A, and riboflavin from the dairy ingredients.
Tips for Healthier Versions
Baking Instead of Frying:
Baking the chicken nuggets instead of frying can significantly reduce the fat content. Place the breaded nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Using Greek Yogurt:
Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the blue cheese dressing to reduce calories and fat while increasing protein.
Low-Sodium Alternatives:
Use low-sodium hot sauce and blue cheese to reduce the overall sodium content. Season the chicken and dressing with herbs and spices instead of extra salt.
Portion Control:
Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake. Serving smaller portions of both the nuggets and dressing can help control overall consumption.
Adding Vegetables:
Pair the nuggets with fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers. This adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal without significantly increasing calorie intake.
FAQS
Buffalo Chicken Nuggets With Blue Cheese Dressing
Equipment
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Mixing Bowls
- Tongs or Forks
- Deep Fryer or Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
- Cooking Thermometer
- Wire Rack and Baking Sheet
- Slotted Spoon or Spider Skimmer
Ingredients
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce Frank's RedHot is a popular choice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Base:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Cheese:
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Flavorings:
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk to thin the dressing, if desired
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken all over with the salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is glistening, working in batches, add the chicken and cook until the chicken is lightly browned 3-4 minutes. Turn and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the butter, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until each piece of chicken is coated in the buffalo sauce.
- Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.