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Butter Garlic Chicken Bites

Butter Garlic Chicken Bites

Butter Garlic Chicken Bites are tender, juicy chicken pieces cooked quickly in a rich and flavorful garlic-infused butter sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, this versatile recipe offers a comforting and delicious meal perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Featuring simple ingredients like chicken, butter, fresh garlic, and lemon juice, this dish delivers an irresistible combination of savory, buttery richness balanced by bright, fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Seasonings

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Sauce & Flavorings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This creates a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, careful not to burn the garlic. The butter infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavor.
  4. Add Freshness and Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Let flavors meld for 1-2 minutes, then promptly remove from heat to avoid overcooking.
  5. Serve Immediately: Transfer the Butter Garlic Chicken Bites to a serving dish and enjoy hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Choose the Right Cut: Thighs offer more juiciness; breasts are leaner—pick based on preference.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give chicken space for browning to avoid steaming.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides superior flavor compared to powders.
  • Watch Your Heat: Medium works best to cook through while preventing garlic from burning.
  • Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Ensures a vibrant, fresh flavor burst.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter garlic chicken, chicken bites, garlic chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy chicken appetizer, kid-friendly chicken, gluten free chicken