Step 1

Gently stir together chicken, buttermilk, and 2 tablespoons of the hot sauce in a medium bowl to coat chicken; let stand uncovered at room temperature at least 10 minutes, or covered and refrigerated up to 24 hours.

Step 2

Place eggs in a shallow dish. Whisk together flour, cheese, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and baking powder in a separate shallow dish. Working in batches, remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess; dredge in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, and return to flour mixture, gently pressing to fully coat. Place chicken on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 3

Pour 2-inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high; heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350°F, adjusting heat as needed to maintain temperature. Working in batches, add chicken to hot oil and fry, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and a food thermometer inserted into chicken registers 165°F, 4 or 6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 4

Whisk together melted butter and remaining ½ cup hot sauce in a large bowl; add fried chicken bites, tossing gently to fully coat. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.