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

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are a delicious twist on your average chicken appetizer. The tangy flavor from the pickle juice infuses the chicken, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Paired with a creamy blue cheese sauce, these bites are perfect for game day, parties, or even just a fun weeknight treat. They’re easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The pickle brine adds a unique tang that elevates ordinary chicken bites to extraordinary.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these bites are sure to be a hit at any party or event.
• Quick Prep Time: With simple steps, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
• Customizable Dipping Sauce: The creamy blue cheese sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
• Fun Finger Food: Great for casual dining, you can serve them as appetizers or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pan: Essential for frying the chicken evenly while ensuring it gets that desired crispy texture.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for crushing cornflakes without creating a mess; this helps in coating the chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

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

For Coating and Frying

• Sea salt
• Pepper
• Corn flakes
• Egg
• Flour
• Fry oil

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 Coatings and Frying Oil

1. Add cornflakes to a Ziploc bag and pound until it becomes large crumbs.
2. Prep for frying by adding flour to one bowl, cornflakes to another, and whisked egg to a third.
3. Add fry oil to a deep pan, heating it until it reaches 350°F.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Working in batches, add pieces of chicken first to flour, then coat with egg, followed by the cornflake mixture.
2. Ensure each piece is evenly coated before frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Bites

1. Carefully add chicken pieces to hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
2. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F.
3. Transfer cooked chicken bites to a rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine sour cream or yogurt with blue cheese crumbles and chopped chives.
2. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Take a piece of fried chicken, add a dollop of blue cheese sauce on top along with a pickle chip.
2. Secure everything with a toothpick.
3. Repeat with remaining pieces of chicken and enjoy!

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

These delicious pickle-brined chicken bites are perfect for any occasion, from game day snacks to party appetizers. Pairing them with the creamy blue cheese sauce elevates their flavor and makes for a delightful treat.

Appetizer Platter

• Serve the chicken bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. Add some sliced pickles and fresh dill as garnish to enhance the presentation.

Salad Topper

• Toss the chicken bites on top of a fresh garden salad. The creamy blue cheese sauce can act as a dressing, adding rich flavors to your greens.

Game Day Snack

• These bites make an excellent finger food for watching sports. Accompany them with celery sticks and additional creamy blue cheese sauce for dipping.

Party Skewers

• Assemble mini skewers by alternating chicken bites, pickle chips, and fresh herbs like chives. This adds a fun twist to serving and makes them easy to grab.

Wrap It Up

• Use the chicken bites in wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of the creamy blue cheese sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy them in a different format!

Side Dipping Options

• Offer various dipping options alongside the chicken bites like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, or even some hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.

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

To achieve the best pickle-brined chicken bites, focus on technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness. The longer it sits in pickle juice, the better it absorbs that tangy goodness.

• Even Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in flour, egg, and corn flakes. This guarantees an extra crispy texture when fried.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil at 350°F for optimal results. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil; too hot will burn the outside before cooking through.

• Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps maintain oil temperature and ensures each piece gets perfectly crispy without steaming.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality blue cheese and fresh dill when making your sauce. Fresh ingredients elevate the overall flavor profile of your dish.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices or herbs to your coating mix for added flavor variation. Paprika or garlic powder can give your chicken an exciting twist!

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

Pairing side dishes with your pickle-brined chicken bites can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crispy French Fries: Golden brown fries complement the crunch of chicken bites while providing a satisfying side.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the creamy blue cheese sauce.

3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness that pairs well with spicy or tangy dipping sauces.

4. Macaroni Salad: A chilled macaroni salad can be refreshing and pairs beautifully with flavorful fried foods.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots tossed in olive oil for healthy contrast.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory flavors while adding vibrant color to your plate.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides protein and textures that balance out indulgence.

8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a delightful dipping option alongside your creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: The flavor comes from the pickle juice. Marinate for at least an hour, but overnight will yield even better results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy bites. Fry in batches for a crispy finish.
• Skipping the Flour Coating: Flour helps the egg adhere and creates a better crust. Always coat your chicken in flour before dipping it in egg.
• Ignoring Oil Temperature: Cooking at the right temperature is crucial. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350°F for perfect frying.
• Underestimating Blue Cheese Mixing: Be sure to mix the sauce well. This ensures all the flavors meld together, enhancing every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Freeze in an airtight freezer bag or container.
• Best consumed within 2 months for quality preservation.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short intervals until hot, which may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! Both boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work well for this recipe. Thighs offer more flavor, while breasts are leaner.

How can I customize the blue cheese sauce?

Feel free to add more herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer.

What can I serve with these chicken bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with fresh veggies or potato wedges. Consider serving with additional pickle chips for extra crunch!

Are there alternatives to blue cheese?

Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or goat cheese crumbles mixed with yogurt and dill as tasty substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. They make for an excellent snack or appetizer at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite flavors or dips—your friends and family will love them! Give this recipe a try today!