Chicken Bites from Shake Shack feature tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a crunchy, seasoned batter, delivering a flavorful and satisfying snack with a golden, crispy exterior.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for holding prepared bites)
- Wire rack
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When preparing Chicken Bites from Shake Shack, ensure your chicken breast pieces are uniformly cut to cook evenly and maintain juiciness. The buttermilk marinade, combined with hot sauce, tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tangy heat that enhances flavor depth. Use a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for the batter to achieve the signature crispy and crunchy coating once fried. It's important to maintain the oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) for perfect golden-brown bites without absorbing excess oil. Your crispy, flavorful Chicken Bites from Shake Shack copycat menu will satisfy cravings with a tender interior and a seasoned, crunchy exterior.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using chef’s knife and cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce, whisk together.
- Add chicken pieces to buttermilk mixture, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (preferably 1–2 hours) in the refrigerator.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.
- Preheat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken pieces from marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge chicken pieces in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere coating.
- Place coated chicken bites on baking sheet lined with a wire rack.
- Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully lower chicken bites into hot oil in batches.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per batch or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), checking with a meat thermometer.
- Remove cooked chicken bites with a slotted spoon and set on a clean wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Chicken Bites from Shake Shack copycat menu replicate the restaurant's iconic tender and crispy chicken pieces with a perfectly seasoned batter. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result, but adjust the frying time to ensure thorough cooking. Maintaining the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF is crucial to achieve a crispy exterior without greasy bites. Your choice of oil should have a high smoke point, such as vegetable or peanut oil, for optimal frying performance.
Tips
Your chicken bites will turn out extra crispy when you combine both flour and cornstarch in the coating mixture, as cornstarch helps create a light, crunchy texture. Maintaining the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) is crucial to prevent greasy bites; use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor this steadily. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 30 minutes breaks down proteins and adds tenderness and flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure each bite reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to guarantee safe consumption without overcooking.
Nutritions
Chicken Bites from Shake Shack provide a protein-rich snack thanks to the use of boneless, skinless chicken breast, which supports muscle repair and growth. The batter, made with all-purpose flour and cornstarch, offers carbohydrates for energy, while the spices contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Frying in vegetable oil adds calories and fat, so portion control can help manage your dietary fat intake. You can enjoy these crunchy bites as an indulgent treat while balancing overall nutrition throughout your day.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Bites in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crunchy, golden exterior without compromising juiciness. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in soggy texture and loss of crispiness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt thinned with a splash of milk for a similar tangy effect. Try adding smoked paprika or cumin to the coating mix for an extra smoky flavor profile. Baking the chicken bites at 400degF (200degC) on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes offers a healthier alternative while keeping them crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165degF to guarantee safe cooking without overcooking.
Allergies
Chicken Bites from Shake Shack contain common allergens including wheat (all-purpose flour) and potentially dairy (buttermilk). The presence of buttermilk may also pose a risk for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies. If you have sensitivities to these ingredients, it is important to exercise caution when consuming this product.
Why this recipe?
Shake Shack's Chicken Bites are celebrated for their crispy, juicy texture and perfectly seasoned coating that delivers an irresistible flavor profile. The menu item balances a savory crunch with tender chicken, making each bite satisfying and flavorful. Replicating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy the same gourmet taste while customizing seasoning and dipping sauces to suit your preferences. Your effort to create this copycat version ensures a delicious, cost-effective alternative to the popular Shake Shack favorite.