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### How to Make Sweet and Spicy Crispy Chicken Bites
#### Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge). This step helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
#### Step 2: Make the Breading
In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
#### Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Remove chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. For extra crunch, double-dip by returning coated chicken to buttermilk, then re-coating in flour mixture.
#### Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
> *Want a healthier version? You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.*
#### Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, garlic, vinegar, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Mix the cornstarch slurry and stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer until thick and glossy, about 2–3 minutes.
#### Step 6: Toss and Serve
Place the crispy chicken bites in a large bowl. Pour the sweet and spicy sauce over the top and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately while hot and sticky!
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### Serving Suggestions
These chicken bites are super versatile and go great with:
– **Steamed jasmine or fried rice**
– **A fresh cucumber salad** to cool the spice
– **Lettuce wraps** for a low-carb option
– **Toothpicks and dipping sauces** for easy party snacking
Garnish with **sesame seeds**, **sliced green onions**, or a **squeeze of lime** to elevate the flavor even more.
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### Pro Tips
🔥 **Control the Heat**: Add more or less sriracha depending on your spice tolerance.
🍯 **Swap Sweeteners**: Try maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a twist.
🧊 **Make Ahead**: Fry chicken ahead of time and re-crisp in the oven before tossing in fresh sauce.
🧽 **Easy Cleanup**: Line your sauce bowl with foil or parchment if tossing hot, sticky sauces—less mess!
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### Final Thoughts
**Sweet and Spicy Crispy Chicken Bites** are everything you want in a homemade meal: crispy, flavorful, saucy, and downright addictive. They’re proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something impressive and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just indulging yourself (no judgment here!), this recipe will hit the spot every single time.
So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite hot sauce, and get ready to make the chicken bites everyone will be talking about.
🍗🔥❤️ **Enjoy every crispy, sticky, sweet-and-spicy bite!**
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