Name: Crunchy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thigh or breast (Thighs retain juiciness better); 1 cup pickle juice (Tenderizes the chicken); 1 tablespoon dill (Fresh dill is best but dried will do); 2 tablespoons sour cream or yogurt (Greek yogurt gives a healthful twist); 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles (Feta can be a milder substitute); 2 tablespoons chopped chives (Green onions can be used if chives aren't available); to taste sea salt; to taste pepper; 2 cups corn flakes (Opt for gluten-free cornflakes if needed); 1 large egg (A flax egg can make a great vegan substitute); 1/2 cup flour (Choose gluten-free flour if needed); as needed fry oil (Any neutral oil will do well); as needed toothpicks (For serving)

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As I stood by the kitchen counter, a jar of pickle juice caught my eye, whispering promises of crisp, tangy delight. That’s when it hit me—why not infuse my chicken bites with that zesty brine? Introducing my Cornflake-Crusted Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce! These little treasures are not only a fun twist on classic appetizers, but they also offer a delightful crunch while remaining juicy on the inside. Perfect for parties or quick family snacks, this recipe is quick to make, ensuring you have more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Trust me, once you serve these bites, your friends will be clamoring for the recipe. Curious about how to bring this tangy crunch to your table? Let’s dive in!

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Why are these chicken bites a must-try?

Unique Flavor Fusion: The pickle brine infuses each bite with a tangy zing that’s simply irresistible.
Crispy Perfection: Thanks to the cornflake coating, you’ll enjoy an ultra-crispy texture that’s hard to resist.
Quick & Easy: Made in just under 30 minutes, these bites are perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Dipping Delight: Pair them with the creamy blue cheese sauce, and you have the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
** gluten-free option:** Easily adaptable with gluten-free cornflakes and flour, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Party-Ready: These bites are great for any occasion—make them for game nights or laid-back get-togethers! If you crave more delicious appetizers, check out my Honey Pepper Chicken or Chicken Gnocchi Soup for even more tasty options!

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless skinless chicken thigh or breast – Thighs retain juiciness better, while breasts provide a leaner alternative.
Pickle juice + pickle chips – Tenderizes the chicken and brings that delightful tang; any pickle juice works!
Dill – Brightens the flavor; fresh dill is best but dried will do in a pinch.

For the Blue Cheese Sauce

Sour cream or yogurt (2 tbsp) – Creamy base for your sauce; Greek yogurt gives a healthful twist.
Blue cheese crumbles – Introduces a robust, distinctive flavor; feta can be a milder substitute.
Chopped chives – Infuses freshness and color; you can use green onions if chives aren’t available.
Sea salt & pepper – Elevates the overall flavor profile; adjust to your personal taste preferences.

For the Coating

Corn flakes – Creates that crunchy, golden-brown coating; opt for gluten-free cornflakes for a gluten-sensitive option.
Egg – Acts as a binder for the coating; a flax egg can make a great vegan substitute.
Flour – Helps the coating stick; choose gluten-free flour if needed.

For Frying

Fry oil – Needed for the crispy bite; any neutral oil will do well.
Toothpicks – Perfect for serving those delicious chicken bites with easy access.

Dive into these Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites and experience a flavor explosion that leaves your taste buds dancing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Brine the Chicken
Begin by slicing your boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, combine the chicken with pickle juice and fresh dill, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the chicken is brining, prepare your coating. In a large Ziploc bag, crush cornflakes until they resemble coarse crumbs. Next, set up three separate shallow bowls: fill one with flour, the second with a whisked egg, and the third with the crushed cornflakes. This station will make coating your pickle-brined chicken bites a breeze.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan or dutch oven, pour in a few inches of neutral fry oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for precise temperature control, ensuring the oil is hot enough for crisping the chicken bites while cooking. Maintain this temperature as you prepare to fry, which is crucial for achieving that golden-brown exterior.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Retrieve the marinated chicken pieces, shaking off excess brine. Dredge each piece in the flour first, ensuring it’s entirely coated. Next, dip it in the egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere, creating a crunchy layer that will enhance the flavor of your pickle-brined chicken bites.

Step 5: Fry Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken bites to the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Aim for a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy interior, indicative of your perfectly fried pickle-brined chicken.

Step 6: Make Blue Cheese Sauce
While the chicken bites are frying, whip up a creamy blue cheese sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, sea salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended, adjusting seasoning to taste. This rich sauce will complement the crunchy chicken bites perfectly.

Step 7: Serve
Once your pickle-brined chicken bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. To serve, skewer each bite with a toothpick and arrange them on a platter. Top each bite with a dollop of the creamy blue cheese sauce and a pickle chip for an extra zesty finish, creating an irresistible appetizer!

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Make Ahead Options

These Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in pickle juice and dill up to 24 hours in advance, letting those flavors infuse deeply. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy blue cheese sauce up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply coat and fry the chicken bites just before serving – they’ll be just as delicious as if made fresh! This way, you save time without compromising on taste, making your gatherings and weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storage Tips for Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store leftover pickle-brined chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to retain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat chicken bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through to maintain their crunchy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Serving Tip: Enjoy these crispy pickle-brined chicken bites with a fresh dip or condiment to elevate their flavor when serving after storage!

What to Serve with Cornflake-Crusted Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites

These chicken bites are a crunchy, zesty dream, perfect for crafting a memorable meal full of flavor and warmth.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken bites perfectly. The presentation is as vibrant as the flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crisp, sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast with their sweetness and creaminess, making for a satisfying texture combo. Plus, they add a touch of color to your plate!
Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic bread serves as a comforting side, perfect for mopping up any extra blue cheese sauce. Its warmth pairs lovely with the chill of the homey dish!
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy element that perfectly complements the pickle brine. Try varying the ingredients with apples or nuts for a twist.
Classic Beer: A cold, crisp lager refreshes your palate while highlighting the savory flavors of the bites. It’s the ideal drink for any gathering.
Margarita: Tart lime and salty rim of a margarita can elevate your palate, offering a fun, festive balance to the savory, tangy chicken bites.
Fruit Skewers: These simple, colorful skewers of watermelon, grapes, and pineapple act as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the rich chicken.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm cookies bring a comforting finish to the meal, rounding out the evening with nostalgia and sweetness.

Transform your gatherings with these delightful pairings that are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction around your table!

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites Variations

Feel free to make these chicken bites truly your own with some fun twists and substitutions!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the pickle brine for a fiery flavor boost. You’ll create a delicious heat that balances perfectly with the creamy dip!
Cheesy Delight: Swap blue cheese for gorgonzola or goat cheese in the sauce to change it up. Each cheese offers a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your guests!
Vegan Option: Use tofu or chickpea patties instead of chicken for a plant-based alternative. Marinate in the same pickle brine for that delightful tang while keeping it vegan.
Crunchy Variations: Ditch the cornflakes and try crushed pretzels or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. Each alternative brings its own crunch and flavor twist to the mix!
Zesty Dip: Serve with a bold ranch or zesty aioli alongside the creamy blue cheese sauce for more dipping variety. It’s like a mini dip party on your plate!
Herb-infused Flavor: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of dill. These herbs can bring an exciting freshness that will brighten up each bite!
Sweet Heat: Mix a bit of honey or maple syrup into the blue cheese sauce for a sweet balance to the savory flavors. The sweetness adds a surprising layer that your taste buds will adore.

For even more delicious options, be sure to check out my hungry-pleasing Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese or try these delightful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for a spin on your appetizers!

Expert Tips for Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites

Perfect Brine Time: Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour; overnight is even better for enhanced flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Oil Temperature Matters: Always check that your frying oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding chicken. This ensures a crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
Coat Evenly: Dip the chicken in flour, egg, then cornflakes. Make sure to press the cornflakes onto the chicken for a thicker, crunchier coating in your pickle-brined chicken bites.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot and achieve that golden-brown finish. Crowding the pan can lead to uneven frying!
Rest for Crispiness: Let the fried bites rest on a rack, not directly on paper towels, to maintain their crispiness.
Experiment with Dipping: While the creamy blue cheese sauce is fantastic, consider serving these bites with ranch or spicy aioli for variety!

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Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option. Whichever you choose, aim for pieces that are fresh and have a nice pink color without dark spots or any foul odor.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftover pickle-brined chicken bites can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely on the countertop before sealing to help maintain their crunch.

Can I freeze these chicken bites?
Yes, you can! For freezing, lay the cooked chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. These bites can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through.

What should I do if my chicken bites aren’t crispy after frying?
Very! If your chicken bites turn out soggy, here are some troubleshooting tips:

Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before adding the chicken; using a cooking thermometer can really help.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in small batches to allow for optimal heat circulation.
Allow excess oil to drain on a cooling rack instead of paper towels to keep them crisp.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Yes! This pickle-brined chicken bites recipe is easily adaptable for gluten-sensitive diets. Simply use gluten-free cornflakes and flour to substitute the regular varieties, allowing everyone to enjoy this tasty appetizer without worry!