Buffalo Bites Bowl with Crispy Potatoes & Shaved Brussels

This Buffalo Bites Bowl combines the spicy kick of Buffalo chicken with the comforting crispiness of roasted potatoes and shaved Brussels sprouts. The bold flavors and textures in this dish make it a standout option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The vibrant colors and rich aromas make this meal as visually appealing as it is tasty. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress guests with a flavorful bowl, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly shaved
• 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for serving)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on one side of the baking sheet.
3. Toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on the other side of the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until the vegetables are golden and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, season the chicken bites with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix melted butter and hot sauce. Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken and toss to coat evenly.
6. To assemble, divide the roasted potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and Buffalo chicken bites into bowls. Drizzle with ranch dressing and garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

History and Origin of Buffalo Flavors

The signature “Buffalo” flavor originates from Buffalo, New York, where the famous Buffalo wings were first introduced in 1964. Traditionally, the tangy and spicy sauce, made from a combination of hot sauce and melted butter, was used to coat chicken wings. Over the years, this flavor profile has transcended wings and been incorporated into various dishes, including salads, wraps, and now, this hearty Buffalo Bites Bowl. This recipe takes the essence of Buffalo wings and reinvents it into a wholesome, modern dinner bowl.

Nutritional Insights

This recipe offers a balanced meal with a good mix of proteins, carbs, and vegetables:

• Protein: The chicken bites provide a lean and protein-rich base, perfect for keeping you satiated.
• Healthy Carbs: Baby potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, fueling your body with energy.
• Fiber and Nutrients: Shaved Brussels sprouts are not only crispy and delicious but also packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
• Lower Calorie Option: By roasting instead of frying and using a lighter ranch dressing, this dish delivers bold flavors without unnecessary calories.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by using more or less hot sauce or switching to a milder sauce. For extra heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper on the chicken before cooking.
• Brussels Sprouts Perfection: Shaving Brussels sprouts thinly ensures they roast evenly and achieve a crispy, caramelized texture. A mandoline slicer can make this step quick and easy.
• Potato Varieties: Baby potatoes work beautifully, but you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes if preferred.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Roast extra vegetables and prepare additional chicken bites to have ready-to-go meals for the next day. This bowl reheats well for quick lunches.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this dish as a standalone meal or pair it with a fresh green salad for added crunch.
• Add a drizzle of blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for an authentic Buffalo wing-inspired experience.
• Garnish with crumbled feta, Parmesan, or crispy bacon bits for an extra flavor boost.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Buffalo Bowl: Swap the chicken with crispy tofu bites or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
2. Keto-Friendly Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets and use a sugar-free hot sauce.
3. Extra Crunch: Toss in some crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips before serving.
4. Buffalo Shrimp Bowl: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation that’s equally delicious.

Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser

The Buffalo Bites Bowl is versatile and appeals to all types of eaters. The bold Buffalo sauce, crispy textures, and savory flavors make it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even game day feasts. It’s easy to customize, making it suitable for families with varying tastes and dietary preferences.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Buffalo Bites Bowl is the ultimate comfort-meets-healthy dish. Combining the zesty heat of Buffalo chicken with the crispy, caramelized texture of roasted Brussels sprouts and potatoes, it’s a complete meal that satisfies cravings without guilt. Its customizable nature makes it a versatile choice for both family dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients Spotlight

1. Brussels Sprouts: Known for their earthy, nutty flavor, Brussels sprouts take on a whole new life when roasted, achieving a delicious crispy texture. They’re a powerhouse of vitamins C and K, making this dish both flavorful and nutrient-packed.
2. Baby Potatoes: These bite-sized potatoes add heartiness and are a great source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness.
3. Chicken: Lean chicken breast is the protein hero of this dish. It’s tender, juicy, and the perfect canvas for the spicy Buffalo sauce.
4. Buffalo Sauce: A simple mixture of hot sauce and melted butter creates the signature tangy, spicy, and buttery Buffalo flavor that everyone loves.
5. Ranch Dressing: This creamy drizzle adds a cooling contrast to the heat, making each bite perfectly balanced.

Step-by-Step Preparation Tips

1. Roasting for Perfection: To ensure both the potatoes and Brussels sprouts cook evenly, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less crispy textures.
2. Perfect Chicken Bites: For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform pieces. To prevent sticking, cook in a preheated skillet with a small amount of oil and avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Buffalo Sauce Coating: Toss the cooked chicken in Buffalo sauce while it’s still warm to allow the flavors to absorb fully. If you like extra saucy bites, reserve some sauce for drizzling over the final dish.

How to Serve

• As a Bowl: Serve everything layered in a bowl for a visually appealing, hearty meal.
• Family-Style Platter: Arrange the chicken, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts on a large serving platter, drizzled with ranch and garnished with green onions.
• Wrap It Up: Turn this recipe into Buffalo wraps by stuffing the ingredients into a tortilla for a portable option.

Flavor Enhancements

• Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or fried onions over the bowl for added crunch.
• Cheesy Touch: Top with shredded cheddar or crumbled blue cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor boost.
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley can add a burst of freshness and a pop of color.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a significant protein boost, ideal for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Fiber: The Brussels sprouts and potatoes contribute dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Low in Added Sugars: The homemade Buffalo sauce keeps unnecessary sugars out of your meal.

Occasions to Serve

• Game Day Feast: A lighter, more satisfying alternative to traditional wings and fries.
• Weeknight Dinner: Quick and easy to make, this bowl fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store each component (chicken, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and sauce) in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the chicken and veggies in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Replace the chicken with crispy tofu, roasted chickpeas, or cauliflower florets tossed in Buffalo sauce.
2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts or potatoes?
   While fresh ingredients yield the best results, frozen Brussels sprouts or potatoes can work if thawed and patted dry before roasting.
3. What’s a good substitute for ranch dressing?
   Blue cheese dressing pairs perfectly with Buffalo flavors, or you can use a Greek yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.