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

The Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering. These flavorful bites combine the tanginess of pickle juice with tender chicken, creating a unique taste sensation. Great for game day, parties, or a casual family dinner, this dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for more. The creamy blue cheese sauce adds a rich finish that perfectly complements each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The pickle brine infuses the chicken with zesty flavor, making each bite burst with taste.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these bites fit into any meal plan.
• Kid-Friendly: The crunchy coating and creamy sauce make it appealing for kids while being satisfying for adults too.
• Great for Sharing: These chicken bites are perfect finger food, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, you’ll need some essential tools to make your Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce. Having the right equipment will ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pan: Essential for frying, it allows enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces for even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Used for marinating and mixing the creamy sauce; having multiple bowls helps keep things organized.
• Ziplock bag: Ideal for crushing cornflakes without mess; it also makes clean-up easy.

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 chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Pour pickle juice over the chicken and sprinkle dill on top.
3. Let the mixture marinate for at least one hour or overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying

1. Place cornflakes in a ziplock bag and pound them until they form large crumbs.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with whisked egg, and the third 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 dredge them in flour first.
2. Dip each piece into the egg mixture next, then coat thoroughly with cornflake crumbs.
3. Carefully add coated chicken pieces to hot oil without overcrowding.
4. Fry for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F). Transfer to a rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Blue Cheese Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), blue cheese crumbles, chopped chives, sea salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bites

1. Take one piece of fried chicken, add a dollop of blue cheese sauce on top, and place a pickle chip on it.
2. Secure everything with a toothpick.
3. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces and serve immediately! Enjoy your delicious 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 your meal or snack time. These bites are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Appetizer Platter

• Arrange the chicken bites on a large platter with toothpicks for easy serving. Include a small bowl of extra creamy blue cheese sauce for dipping.

Game Day Snack

• Serve these bites alongside potato wedges and veggie sticks for a perfect game day treat. The combination makes for a fun finger-food experience.

Salad Topper

• Add chopped pickle-brined chicken bites atop mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. This adds protein and flavor to your salad, making it more filling.

Sandwich Filling

• Use the chicken bites as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. Layer them with lettuce, tomato, and additional sauce for a delicious meal on the go.

Picnic Delight

• Pack these bites in a picnic basket along with some fresh fruit and chips. They’re easy to transport and make for an enjoyable outdoor meal.

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

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

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight intensifies the flavor. The longer it sits in pickle juice, the more flavorful it becomes.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil at around 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh dill and high-quality blue cheese. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to maintain proper oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bites.

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. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw complements the richness of the chicken bites wonderfully.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries add an extra layer of indulgence that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and adds color to your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges: These provide a slightly sweet contrast to the salty chicken flavors.
5. Vegetable Medley: A mix of sautéed or roasted veggies offers freshness and balance.
6. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes that mesh well with the crispy chicken.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can help cut through the richness of the dish while adding crunch.
8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks offer something comforting that pairs beautifully with dipping sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure your pickle-brined chicken bites turn out perfectly by avoiding these common mistakes.

• Over-marinating the chicken: Leaving the chicken in pickle juice for too long can make it overly salty. Aim for a marinating time of one hour to overnight for the best flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Skipping the coating process: Neglecting to coat the chicken properly can lead to uneven texture. Make sure to follow the three-step coating process: flour, egg, and then cornflakes for a crispy finish.
• Crowding the frying pan: Adding too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy bites. Fry in small batches to maintain a high oil temperature and achieve that crispy exterior.
• Not checking internal temperature: Failing to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F can result in undercooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Using stale cornflakes: Old cornflakes won’t provide the crunch you desire. Ensure your cornflakes are fresh for optimal crispiness when frying.
• Inadequate storage methods: Improper storage can lead to soggy leftovers. Allow your chicken bites to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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 to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as necessary based on the meat used.

What are some great dipping sauces?

While creamy blue cheese sauce pairs well, ranch dressing or honey mustard is also delicious with pickle-brined chicken bites.

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken and avoid overcrowding the pan during frying.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake at 400°F on a greased baking sheet until golden brown, approximately 20-25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Pickle-Brined Chicken Bites w/ a Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce are perfect for game day snacks or casual get-togethers. Their crispy texture combined with tangy pickle flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different spices or dipping sauces based on your preference!