Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites Recipe

If you are craving a snack that is bursting with flavor and has the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and crispy, then you are going to love these Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites. These little bites pack a punch, combining tender shredded chicken, melty cheddar cheese, and that signature buffalo heat, all encased in a crunchy cornflake coating. Whipping them up is a breeze, and using the air fryer means you get that golden-fried goodness without all the oil. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a tasty treat to enjoy, these Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites comes from a handful of simple ingredients that work together beautifully. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy richness to the spicy kick and the satisfying crunch.

• Cream Cheese (4 oz., softened): Adds a smooth, creamy texture that binds everything together perfectly.
• Hot Sauce (1/2 cup): Packs the signature buffalo heat to give these bites their irresistible kick.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken (3 cups): The hearty base that absorbs all those delicious flavors, ideally from a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts beautifully inside every bite, adding that gooey, cheesy goodness you crave.
• Sliced Green Onions (1/4 cup): Offers a mild, fresh pop of flavor and a bit of color.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Helps the coating stick and gives a first layer of crispness after frying.
• Large Eggs (4, lightly beaten): Used to bind the outer coating ingredients firmly to the chicken balls.
• Cornflakes Cereal (4 cups, crushed): Creates the ultra-crispy, golden breadcrumb alternative that makes these bites irresistible.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Step 1: Mix the Filling

Start by combining cream cheese, hot sauce, cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions in a large bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until everything is fully incorporated and you have a creamy, spicy chicken mixture ready to shape.

Step 2: Form the Bites

Using a medium cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out the mixture and roll it into smooth 2-inch balls. Place these on a baking sheet, giving yourself enough space to work on coating them properly.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Stations

Set up three separate shallow dishes: one with the flour, another with the lightly beaten eggs, and the last filled with crushed cornflakes. These are your breading stations, which will give the bites their signature crispy crust.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Bites

Working in batches, dip each ball first into the flour, then the egg, and finally roll it in the crushed cornflakes until fully coated. Rinse your hands between batches to keep the process neat and avoid clumping.

Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Optional tip: line the basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Arrange up to 12 bites in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded so air can circulate and crisp them evenly. Cook for 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving so they set up nicely.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites

Garnishes

To elevate your Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites, sprinkle some extra sliced green onions on top for freshness and a pop of color. You can also add a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing right on the plate for dipping, enhancing the creamy and cooling contrast to the spicy heat.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with crunchy celery sticks and carrot sticks for that classic buffalo snack vibe. A crisp green salad or even some creamy coleslaw can complement the fiery flavors and provide a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the bites on a wooden board lined with parchment paper alongside small bowls of different dips like garlic aioli, honey mustard, or extra buffalo sauce. For a party, you could even thread the bites onto skewers for bite-sized buffalo chicken lollipops that are fun and easy to munch on.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining much of their crispness when properly reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the coated uncooked bites by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and can be cooked straight from frozen in your air fryer.

Reheating

To reheat, place the bites in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This helps restore their crispy exterior without drying out the inside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Mozzarella or pepper jack are great substitutes if you want a different kind of melt or a bit more spice. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the buffalo sauce.

How spicy are these Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites?

The heat level mainly depends on the hot sauce you use. You can adjust it by choosing a milder or hotter sauce or modifying the quantity to suit your taste buds perfectly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cornflakes. Just ensure all other ingredients are checked for gluten to keep it safe.

Is it necessary to use cornflakes for the coating?

The crushed cornflakes provide an amazing crunch that’s hard to replicate with other coatings. However, panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips can be substituted if needed, though the texture will vary slightly.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

You can bake them at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. But using the air fryer really gives them that perfect crispy finish without extra oil.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about these Air Fryer Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Bites that makes every bite addictively delicious. They’re simple to make, bursting with bold flavors, and have that crisp texture you crave. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your ultimate snack or party favorite. Grab your air fryer, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the perfect balance of cheesy, spicy, and crunchy goodness all in one bite!

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