Name: Crispy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (Chicken thighs are juicier.); 1 cup pickle juice (For brining.); 0.25 cup fresh dill (For flavor.); 2 cups corn flakes (For coating.); 1 egg (Binder for coating.); 0.5 cup flour (For coating.); 2 cups fry oil (Vegetable or peanut oil.); 1 teaspoon sea salt (Enhances flavors.); 0.5 teaspoon pepper (For balance.); 1 cup sour cream or yogurt (Greek yogurt for a lighter option.); 0.5 cup blue cheese crumbles (Rich and tangy.); 2 tablespoons chopped chives (For garnish.); 0.5 teaspoon pepper (Adjust to taste.); 0.5 teaspoon sea salt (Balances flavors.); 12 toothpicks (For serving.)

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The crunch of cornflakes beneath my fingertips is both nostalgic and exciting as I prepare to make these Crispy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce. Brined in tangy pickle juice, the chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering—think summer barbecues or game day parties. Not only do these bites deliver a delightful crunch, but they also embrace the zesty flavors of dill and blue cheese, transforming ordinary chicken into a flavorful experience. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this indulgent appetizer that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Are you ready to elevate your snacking game and impress your guests with this unique twist on fried chicken?

Why Are These Chicken Bites a Must-Try?

Crispy Texture: The cornflake crust creates a satisfying crunch that you’ll love with each bite.

Perfectly Seasoned: The pickle brine not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with tangy flavors that elevate your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, these bites are ideal for unexpected guests or a last-minute gathering.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as elegant appetizers, or pile them high on slider buns for a fun twist at your next barbecue or game day.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will be reaching for more! For another delicious option, consider pairing these with a refreshing side like Lemon Chicken Pasta.

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Chicken thighs are juicier and ideal for this recipe.
• Pickle juice + pickle chips – This brine ensures the chicken is juicy and infused with tangy flavor.
• Dill – Fresh dill is recommended for a burst of herbal freshness.
• Corn flakes – Creates the irresistible crunchy coating; panko breadcrumbs can be swapped for a different texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder, helping the cornflake coating adhere perfectly.
• Flour – Aids in the coating process, allowing other ingredients to stick.
• Fry oil – Vegetable or peanut oil works best for frying to achieve that perfect golden crisp.
• Sea salt – Enhances the flavors throughout your delicious pickle-brined chicken bites.
• Pepper – Adds a hint of heat for balance.

For the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce
• Sour cream or yogurt – Serves as a creamy base; Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
• Blue cheese crumbles – Provides a rich, tangy kick—feta can substitute for a milder flavor.
• Chopped chives – Brings a fresh, oniony flavor to the sauce and works as a lovely garnish.
• Pepper – Adjust for the desired heat in your creamy sauce.
• Sea salt – Helps balance flavors, making the sauce irresistible.

Optional Serving
• Toothpicks – Perfect for serving these bites at gatherings and makes enjoying them even easier!

Serve these Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce warm for best results, and brace yourself for the rave reviews!

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by slicing boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a bowl and cover it with tangy pickle juice, adding fresh dill for extra flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to enhance its tenderness and taste.

Step 2: Prepare Cornflake Coating
While the chicken is marinating, take a zip-top bag and fill it with cornflakes. Use a rolling pin to crush the cornflakes until they form coarse crumbs. This will create the crunchy coating for your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites. Set the crushed cornflakes aside until you’re ready to bread the chicken.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
Create a three-bowl breading station to streamline the coating process. In the first bowl, add flour seasoned with sea salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs until fully combined. In the third bowl, pour the crushed cornflake crumbs. This setup will make it much easier to coat each piece of chicken evenly.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, pour in enough fry oil to submerge your chicken bites. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready for frying. Maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving a golden crispy texture.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, take each marinated chicken piece and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the cornflake crumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well. This triple coating makes for deliciously crispy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Bites
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce
For the creamy blue cheese sauce, combine sour cream (or yogurt), blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This luscious sauce will complement the crunch and tang of your chicken bites perfectly.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve
To serve your delectable Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites, skewer each piece with a toothpick, adding a dollop of the creamy blue cheese sauce and a pickle chip for extra flavor. Arrange them on a platter while still warm, and get ready for everyone to be impressed by this delightful appetizer.

Expert Tips for the Best Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites

Perfect Brining Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor absorption from the pickle juice.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your oil at 350°F (175°C) to achieve that coveted crispy coating. Use a thermometer for accuracy, and avoid overcrowding the pan!
Coating Consistency: Make sure to press the cornflake crumbs onto the coated chicken for a thick, crunchy layer. This prevents pieces from falling off during frying.
Customize the Sauce: Experiment with the blue cheese sauce by adding garlic powder, or swapping the blue cheese with feta for a milder flavor in your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these bites hot and fresh. For parties, consider presenting them as sliders with mini buns for a fun twist.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness before serving.

What to Serve with Crispy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites?

Elevate your snacking experience with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement the crunch and tang of these chicken bites.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch with a hint of sweetness balances the savory flavors of the chicken bites beautifully.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brings a summery touch to your plate, enhancing the picnic feel of this dish.
Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries tossed in garlic and Parmesan are a familiar favorite that adds comfort and indulgence to your meal.
Vegetable Platter: Serve alongside fresh, colorful veggies for a light, crunchy contrast to the indulgent chicken bites.

For a complete meal idea, consider creating a picnic spread with these chicken bites, fresh salads, and your drink of choice. Both fun and flavorful!

Tangy Pickle Potato Salad: The sharpness of pickles in the potato salad mirrors the chicken’s flavors for a cohesive dining experience.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea cleanse the palate and complement the savory chicken bites nicely.
Mini Slider Buns: Create fun sliders by placing the chicken bites in slider buns with extra sauce and pickles for a delightful handheld treat.
Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread: A warm, cheesy addition with a hint of spice that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the blue cheese sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store any leftover pickle-brined chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat the chicken bites in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in pickle juice up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen, making your next preparation even more delicious!

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize these chicken bites just the way you love them!

Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses such as gorgonzola or sharp cheddar in the sauce for unique flavors. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dish, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce to the pickle brine for a zesty heat that complements the tanginess beautifully. Just a few drops can elevate the entire dish, ensuring your guests will be asking for the secret ingredient!
Breadcrumb Swap: Try using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for an even lighter, flakier texture. This switch doesn’t just alter the crunch, but also gives a beautiful golden hue to your bites, making them irresistible!
Herbed Delight: Toss some additional herbs like parsley or oregano into the creamy blue cheese sauce for an aromatic touch. The fresh herbs enhance the overall flavor profile, making the sauce a standout star!
Slider Magic: Turn these chicken bites into mini sliders by placing them in slider buns with extra pickles and sauce. This playful presentation is perfect for your next gathering and turns finger food into a handheld meal!
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute gluten-free flour and cornflakes to make this dish accessible to everyone at your table. You can still achieve that crispy finish without compromising on taste!
Garlic Lover’s Special: Incorporate garlic powder into the flour mix for a savory twist that elevates the flavor of the bites. It adds an additional layer of mouthwatering delight that garlic enthusiasts will adore.

Don’t miss out on pairing these delicious bites with refreshing options like Lemon Chicken Pasta or serving them alongside zesty Chicken Gyro Bowls for a complete meal experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in pickle juice and dill up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Additionally, prepare the creamy blue cheese sauce a day ahead; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to cook, bread and fry the chicken bites to achieve that irresistible crunch. To maintain quality, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, ensuring they are reheated thoroughly before serving for delicious results!

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

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the juiciest results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs; they tend to remain moist even during frying. If you prefer breast meat, that works too—just be mindful not to overcook them to keep them tender.

How should I store leftover chicken bites?
Leftover Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to help maintain their crispy coating!

Can I freeze these chicken bites?
Yes, you can! After frying, let the chicken bites cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get that crunch back.

What should I do if my coating falls off while frying?
Very! If you’re having trouble with the coating falling off, ensure that you’re pressing the cornflake crumbs firmly onto the chicken. Also, try letting the breaded chicken sit for about 10 minutes before frying; this helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from slipping off.

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Definitely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of cornflakes, and substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. The flavor will remain delightful, and everyone can enjoy your fantastic appetizer!

Can I make the blue cheese sauce ahead of time?
Of course! You can prepare the creamy blue cheese sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine the ingredients, and it will be ready to complement your crispy chicken bites perfectly!