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

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are the perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer or party snack. These bite-sized chicken pieces are marinated in zesty pickle juice, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Paired with a creamy blue cheese sauce, they are ideal for game day, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. What sets this dish apart is its crunchy cornflake coating and the delightful contrast of textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: The pickle brine infuses the chicken with a unique tanginess that elevates traditional fried chicken bites.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious bites quickly.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, these chicken bites fit any occasion.
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy blue cheese sauce appeals to everyone’s taste buds.
• Fun presentation: Using toothpicks not only makes them easy to serve but also adds a fun element to your gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pan
• Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Toothpicks
• Meat slicer or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pan: Essential for frying the chicken evenly without overcrowding, ensuring a crispy exterior.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for crushing cornflakes quickly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your creamy blue cheese sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

• 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

For Serving

• Toothpicks

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Slice the boneless skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to a bowl.
2. Pour pickle juice over the chicken pieces and sprinkle with dill.
3. Let marinate for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying

1. Place cornflakes in a Ziploc bag and crush them into large crumbs using a rolling pin or meat mallet.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with whisked egg, and the last with crushed cornflakes.
3. Heat fry oil in a deep pan until it reaches 350°F.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Working in batches, take pieces of marinated chicken and coat them first in flour, then dip into egg, and finally roll in the cornflake mixture until evenly coated.
2. Carefully add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding; fry only a few at a time.
3. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing from oil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, sea salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until thoroughly combined to create your creamy blue cheese sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Take each piece of fried chicken and place it on a toothpick along with a small dollop of cream sauce and a pickle chip.
2. Repeat with remaining chicken bites and serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your 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 can elevate any gathering. These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Skewers for Easy Handling

• Use toothpicks or small skewers to assemble chicken bites with a dollop of sauce and a pickle chip on top. This makes for an easy grab-and-go appetizer.

With Fresh Veggies

• Serve alongside a platter of fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and cherry tomatoes. The crunch complements the tender chicken perfectly.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Place the chicken bites on a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Drizzle with extra creamy blue cheese sauce for a delightful salad option.

As Part of a Snack Board

• Arrange the chicken bites on a charcuterie board with cheeses, crackers, and dips. This will create an inviting centerpiece for your next get-together.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer additional dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo on the side. This adds variety and caters to different taste preferences.

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

To ensure your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate in pickle juice and dill overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh dill and high-quality blue cheese crumbles to enhance the overall taste.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil at 350°F; if it’s too hot, the outside may burn while the inside remains undercooked.
• Even Coating: Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in flour, egg, and cornflakes for that crispy texture.
• Rest After Frying: Let your fried chicken bites rest on a rack to keep them crispy instead of soggy on paper towels.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of blue cheese or sour cream in your sauce based on your flavor preference.

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 the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Crispy French Fries
   Classic fries provide comfort and crunch that pairs well with the flavors of your chicken bites.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can add brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce.

3. Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges offer another crunchy side that is easy to make and serve alongside your dish.

4. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft garlic breadsticks can complement the savory notes in your meal while providing an enjoyable texture contrast.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   These offer a slightly sweet alternative to regular fries while adding color and flavor diversity to your plate.

6. Macaroni Salad
   A creamy macaroni salad makes for a satisfying side that combines well with the tanginess of pickle-brined chicken bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken in pickle juice can lead to bland bites. Make sure to let it soak for at least an hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches for a crispier result.

• Not Checking Internal Temperature: Ignoring the internal temperature can result in undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.

• Inconsistent Coating: Neglecting to coat chicken evenly can cause some bites to be dry. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered with flour, egg, and cornflake mixture.

• Using Stale Cornflakes: Old cornflakes won’t provide a good crunch. Use fresh cornflakes and crush them just before frying for maximum crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing.

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

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy identification later.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently as microwave times vary.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce that may help you out!

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even beef for this recipe, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

How do I make the creamy blue cheese sauce?

Simply combine sour cream or yogurt with blue cheese crumbles and chopped chives until smooth and creamy.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the coating in advance. Just store them separately until you’re ready to fry.

What are some serving suggestions?

These bites make great appetizers or game-day snacks. Serve them alongside fresh veggies and extra sauce for dipping!

Final Thoughts

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce offer bold flavors and crispy textures that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize the spices or dipping sauces according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—give this delicious dish a try!