Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a mouthwatering, savory treat that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. These juicy, flavorful bites are seared to perfection and then coated in a buttery sauce that’s infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon. The result is an irresistible dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a flavorful snack.

I first made these when I was looking for something quick and satisfying, and they quickly became a family favorite. The kitchen was filled with the heavenly aroma of garlic and butter, and the chicken bites were gone in minutes. What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to make with just a few ingredients, yet the flavor is so rich and comforting. You can serve it with a side of vegetables, over pasta, or even enjoy them as a snack on their own.

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, they’re sure to be a hit every time!

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Appetizers for parties
• Meal prep
• Family dinners
• Garlic lovers

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite:

• Tender Chicken: The chicken pieces are cooked until golden brown and juicy, absorbing all the delicious flavor from the garlic butter sauce.
• Rich and Savory Sauce: The garlic butter sauce is packed with rich, savory flavors, with a hint of lemon for brightness.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these chicken bites are perfect for when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.
• Versatile: Serve these chicken bites on their own, or with a side of vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to the sauce for a personalized touch.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 3g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this recipe:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Chicken breast or thighs provide a juicy, tender base for this dish. You can use either depending on your preference.
• Butter: The butter creates a rich, indulgent sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth to the sauce, making it the star of the dish.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice balances out the richness of the butter and garlic with a hint of freshness.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy note to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help them sear properly. Season with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
4. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If you’re using thyme or rosemary, add it now and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to combine.

Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:

6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce until evenly coated. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the garlic butter chicken bites to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Serve immediately.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken bites as a flavorful appetizer for parties or gatherings.
• With Rice: Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• With Vegetables: Pair with sautéed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a healthy, well-rounded meal.
• On a Salad: Add the chicken bites on top of a fresh salad for a light and satisfying dish.
• With Pasta: Serve with pasta and toss the chicken in the garlic butter sauce for a simple yet indulgent meal.

Additional Tips FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken will yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For a nice sear on the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more butter or even a splash of heavy cream to make it creamier.
• Add Spice: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served right after cooking, so it stays hot and the chicken remains tender.

Recipe Variations FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add more lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan over the chicken for a cheesy, savory twist.
• Herb Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Use a mix of fresh herbs like oregano, basil, or sage for a variety of flavors.
• Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before cooking for a crispy texture on the outside.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan to cook with the garlic butter sauce for added depth and flavor.
• Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
• Bacon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add crumbled bacon on top of the chicken for a smoky, savory addition.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus: Add asparagus to the pan and cook it alongside the chicken for a quick, one-pan meal.

Freezing and Storage FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Freezing: To freeze, let the chicken bites cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist.

Special Equipment FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Non-stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that the chicken doesn’t stick to the pan and helps with even cooking.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Tongs or Spatula: Use tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken while cooking.
• Garlic Press (optional): A garlic press can make mincing garlic faster and easier.
• Measuring Spoons: To ensure the right amount of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, measuring spoons are helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and will give you a slightly juicier bite.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking for the best texture.
4. Can I make the sauce spicier?
   Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.
5. Can I make this dish creamy?
   Yes, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a creamy version of this dish.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken and a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. With quick preparation and endless possibilities for customization, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these garlic butter chicken bites are guaranteed to impress!

This recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it ideal for everything from busy weeknights to casual gatherings. Whether you’re serving them as a starter or alongside your favorite sides, these chicken bites will be a hit every time.

I’d love to see how your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!