Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe that is bursting with flavor, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the answer! From a busy weeknight dinner to an appetizer for a crowd, this dish is versatile, tasty, and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Stick around as we take you through every detail you need to know to make these bites irresistible.

What Are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender pieces of chicken breast sautéed to golden perfection in a flavorful blend of garlic, butter, and herbs. The bite-sized pieces are cooked until they’re juicy and coated in a savory sauce, making them perfect as a main course, a side dish, or even a delicious appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Rich and flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter creates an unbeatable taste.
• Versatile: Perfect for meals, salads, or even wraps.
• Keto-friendly: Low in carbs and high in protein, ideal for a healthy diet.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To get that perfect garlic butter flavor, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 tablespoons of butter (unsalted)
• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon of paprika (for color and flavor)
• ½ teaspoon of dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Juice of half a lemon (for a bit of zing)

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Butter & Olive Oil: Butter gives a rich taste, while olive oil prevents it from burning.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to the bold, aromatic flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Oregano, thyme, and paprika bring an extra layer of flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance out the richness.

Substitutions and Variations

There’s plenty of room to adjust this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

• Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegan butter.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a different twist.
• Butter Alternative: If you're avoiding dairy, you can use ghee or a plant-based butter substitute.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process to make sure your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites come out perfectly every time!

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breast pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
• Season them generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Heating the Pan

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add olive oil to the pan to prevent the butter from burning.

Step 3: Searing the Chicken

• Once the pan is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
• Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they are golden brown on all sides.

Step 4: Adding Garlic and Butter

• Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan.
• Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
• Add butter to the pan and let it melt, creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken pieces.

Step 5: Adding Herbs and Finishing Touches

• Sprinkle dried oregano and thyme over the chicken and stir well.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pan and stir to combine.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Marinate: While optional, marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and spices for 15 minutes can enhance the flavors.
2. Heat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get that crispy exterior.
3. Garlic Timing: Always add garlic after the chicken has started to cook to prevent burning.
4. Finish with Herbs: Adding fresh parsley or herbs at the end helps to maintain their vibrant color and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• High Heat Garlic Cooking: Garlic burns quickly, so make sure you lower the heat when you add it to the pan.
• Undercooking or Overcooking Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are perfect for various serving options. Whether you want to keep it casual or go fancy, here are some ideas to help you out.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• With Rice or Pasta: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy pasta for a hearty meal.
• On a Salad: Toss them into a fresh green salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them with toothpicks as a party snack with a dipping sauce.
• In Wraps: Add them to wraps or sandwiches with veggies for a quick lunch option.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color.
• Lemon Slices: Add a few lemon wedges around the plate for a vibrant touch.
• Plating on a Wooden Board: For a rustic look, serve them on a wooden platter with a side of dipping sauce.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips

• Pre-cut the Chicken: Cutting the chicken into uniform pieces helps it cook evenly.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the chicken rest for a minute to allow juices to redistribute.
• Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for an even melt without browning too quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to prevent extra moisture in the pan.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I reheat Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Absolutely! Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warm, or use a microwave.

4. What can I use instead of butter?

Ghee or any plant-based butter alternative works well if you’re dairy-free.

5. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Add garlic to the pan at a lower heat setting, just after the chicken has browned.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delicious, quick, and versatile recipe that everyone should have in their kitchen arsenal. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, you’ll be able to whip up a flavorful dish in no time. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, a side dish, or even a party appetizer, these bites will never disappoint. Try it out, and you’ll see why this recipe is a favorite for so many!

Ready to make these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites? Gather your ingredients and follow our step-by-step guide to enjoy a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Print