Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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:
- 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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 30g