Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a mouthwatering, savory dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. With every bite, you’re treated to a delightful balance of garlicky goodness, buttery richness, and juicy chicken that will have you coming back for more. These chicken bites are quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even as an appetizer at your next party.

What makes this recipe so irresistible is the garlic butter sauce. Made with fresh garlic, melted butter, and a few simple seasonings, it creates a rich, aromatic coating for the chicken. Whether you serve them as a main dish with a side of vegetables or as a snack with some dipping sauce, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold, savory flavors.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of garlic to suit your preferences, add herbs or spices to customize the flavor, or even make the sauce spicier by including red pepper flakes. With its simplicity and delicious taste, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle. The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute cravings.
• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish. Made with fresh garlic, butter, and seasonings, it coats the chicken in a luscious, savory layer of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: The chicken bites are seared until golden brown, resulting in crispy exteriors and juicy, tender interiors. The bite-sized pieces are perfect for snacking or serving as a meal.
• Customizable: The recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and add extra ingredients like herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste. You can easily make it spicier or milder based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a simple dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving finger foods at a party, these chicken bites are a versatile dish that works for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 0-1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for a fresh zing)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using chicken breasts, trim off any excess fat and cut them into 1 to 1 ½-inch chunks. If you’re using chicken thighs, remove the skin and bones, and cut the meat into similar-sized pieces.

Once the chicken is cut, season it with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). The paprika adds a touch of smoky flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer a more subtle taste. Toss the chicken pieces to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. You may need to cook the chicken in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.

Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side until it develops a golden brown crust. Then, flip the chicken pieces over and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side, until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavors into the sauce.

Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter if overcooked.

If you’re using, add the lemon juice, dried thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the butter and garlic, while the thyme and rosemary contribute a savory, herbal note to the sauce.

Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. You’ll want to reduce the sauce slightly so that it thickens and coats the chicken well.

4. Combine Chicken and Garlic Butter Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the chicken in the sauce, making sure all of the pieces are coated in the rich, garlicky goodness. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce for added richness and a cheesy flavor. This is optional but adds a wonderful depth to the dish.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If you like a spicier kick, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.

5. Serve the Chicken Bites

Once the chicken is fully coated in the garlic butter sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are best served immediately while the chicken is hot and juicy, and the sauce is rich and flavorful.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great option, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure a perfect sear.
• Customize the Garlic Flavor: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic to the sauce. Start with the recommended 5-6 cloves, and if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount to your liking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley will elevate the flavor even more. Fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the rich butter and garlic.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier version of this dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
• Make It a Meal: To turn this dish into a complete meal, serve the garlic butter chicken bites over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Bites: For a seafood twist, substitute the chicken with shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce. Simply sauté the shrimp until pink, then toss them in the sauce.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites: Add more lemon juice and zest to the garlic butter sauce for a tangy and refreshing lemon garlic flavor. The citrusy brightness balances out the richness of the butter.
• Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even some hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. This will give the chicken a spicy, bold flavor.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, to the garlic butter sauce for a more complete meal. The vegetables will soak up the flavorful sauce and complement the chicken perfectly.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the garlic butter chicken bites. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer the chicken to the refrigerator overnight, and reheat as desired.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Rice or Pasta: Serve the garlic butter chicken bites over steamed rice or pasta for a comforting meal. The sauce will pair perfectly with either option.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of broccoli, green beans, or asparagus works wonderfully with the rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
• Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent meal, serve garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce.
• Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken bites.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a simple yet delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, these chicken bites are sure to be a hit. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, savory meal that’s packed with deliciousness. Try it today and discover why these garlic butter chicken bites will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!