Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

There’s something utterly irresistible about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Imagine coming home after a long day, and the aroma of garlic and butter fills the air, pulling you into the kitchen with a promise of something delicious. I remember the first time I made these; I was just experimenting with some chicken and ended up creating a dish that became an instant favorite. The combination of tender chicken, rich butter, and fragrant garlic meld together perfectly, making every bite a little piece of heaven. They’re quick to whip up and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a flavorful dish that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins
Prep Time:
9 mins
Cook Time:
6 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free
Fat:
22 g
Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Skillet

What Makes This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Special

Quick and Easy

One of the reasons I adore Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is their simplicity. In just a few minutes, you can have a meal on the table that tastes like it took hours to prepare. When I’m short on time but still want something satisfying, this recipe is my go-to. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without the fuss.

Perfect Pairing with Sides

These chicken bites are incredibly versatile. They work beautifully alongside a fresh salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a hearty grain like couscous. I often serve them with sautéed vegetables, which adds a nice crunch and color to the plate. The balance of flavors makes every meal special.

Flavor Explosion

The rich flavor that comes from the garlic and butter is simply magical. Each bite of chicken is infused with the savory taste of garlic, seasoned just right. I love how the butter gives the dish a luscious finish, making it feel indulgent without a lot of effort.

Great for Meal Prep

What I appreciate most about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is how well they hold up for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them over several days. They reheat beautifully and taste just as good on day three as they do right after cooking.

Kid-Friendly

If you’re cooking for kids, this dish is a winner. The chicken bites are flavorful yet mild enough for younger palates. Plus, the fun, bite-sized pieces make it easy for the little ones to eat. I love serving this with a side of their favorite dipping sauce for a little extra fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

When it comes to making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Each component plays a vital role in achieving a dish that’s rich and flavorful. The star of the show, of course, is the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which provide a tender and juicy base. Paired with butter and garlic, you create a rich sauce that beautifully coats each piece. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious dish.

  • 1 1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/4-inch pieces: The main ingredient that provides protein and a satisfying texture.
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps to create a light coating on the chicken, allowing the flavors to stick.
  • 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a delightful herbaceous flavor that enhances the chicken.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to enhance the overall flavors.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil: Used to help brown the chicken while cooking.
  • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided: Provides richness and depth of flavor to the dish.
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves): Infuses the butter with a robust flavor that is essential to this recipe.
  • 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the finished dish.

The Process for Making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a simple process that anyone can master. I love how quickly these come together, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Just follow these steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.

  1. Preheat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken will sear nicely.
  2. Dab the chicken pieces dry on all sides with paper towels. This step is important for achieving a good sear, so don’t skip it!
  3. Sprinkle the flour, Italian seasoning, and a desired amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken. Toss well to evenly coat. Make sure all the flour sticks to the chicken. If it doesn’t, keep tossing until it does.
  4. Add 1 Tbsp of olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter to the skillet. The butter should melt quickly; tilt the pan to evenly coat.
  5. Add the chicken in an even layer, ensuring there’s some space between pieces to promote browning instead of steaming.
  6. Let the chicken cook until it’s nicely golden brown on the bottom, about 3 minutes, then flip to the opposite side and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until it’s nearly cooked through.
  7. Add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter in small pieces, along with the garlic and parsley. Cook for 1 minute longer, ensuring the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F in the center and no longer appears pink.
  8. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites right away, ideally with your favorite sides.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to brown the chicken properly. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will steam rather than brown.
  • Tossing the chicken: Make sure to toss the chicken thoroughly with the flour mixture. This will create a nice coating that locks in moisture and flavor.
  • Butter melting: When adding butter to the pan, watch it carefully to avoid burning. It should melt and start foaming but not turn brown.
  • Resting time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps to redistribute the juices for a more tender bite.

Recipe Tips about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To make your cooking experience even more enjoyable, here are some tips for perfecting your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken bites for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before placing them in a freezer-friendly bag.
  • Pairing: These bites pair well with a variety of sides, including lemon couscous, rice, or a fresh salad.
  • Cooking for a crowd: Double the recipe if you’re hosting a gathering. These chicken bites are always a hit!
  • Herb variations: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor.
  • Serving suggestions: Serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or a simple garlic aioli for added zest.

Accompaniments for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be a delightful experience. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of your dish:

  • Fresh salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
  • Couscous or rice: A lemon-flavored couscous or fluffy rice makes a perfect base to soak up the buttery sauce.
  • Vegetables: Pair with steamed or sautéed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a well-rounded meal.
  • Meal prep: These chicken bites are perfect for meal prep. Cook a large batch and enjoy throughout the week.
  • Family gatherings: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, serve these bites alongside a variety of sides to cater to everyone’s tastes.

FAQ

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly delicious due to the rich combination of flavors from the butter and fresh garlic. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the garlic and butter create a savory sauce that enhances each bite. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also comforting, making it a favorite for many home cooks.

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with thighs if you prefer. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so they will work wonderfully in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

If you’re looking to add a little extra kick to your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You can also incorporate other spices like smoked paprika or even a dash of lemon zest for a fresh twist. This flexibility allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking!

To store your leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken tough.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful dish that brings joy with every bite. Their rich flavor and quick preparation make them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight; you won’t be disappointed! With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly special that everyone will love.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

The ultimate comfort food, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are rich, savory, and quick to prepare for any weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, fresh garlic, and creamy butter, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a deliciously easy meal.
Prep Time 9 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 lbs Boneless skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1 1/4-inch pieces.
  • 2 Tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt To taste.
  • Freshly ground black pepper To taste.
  • 1 Tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp Unsalted butter Divided.
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Minced fresh garlic (About 4 cloves.)
  • 2 Tbsp Finely chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying pan
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Dab the chicken on all sides dry with paper towels.
  3. Sprinkle the flour, Italian seasoning, and desired amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken. Toss well to evenly coat.
  4. Add 1 Tbsp of olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter to the skillet. The butter should melt quickly.
  5. Set the chicken in the skillet in an even layer, allowing space between each piece.
  6. Let cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 3 minutes, then flip and cook for 2 minutes longer or until nearly cooked through.
  7. Add remaining 2 Tbsp of butter, along with garlic and parsley. Cook for 1 minute longer.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra herb flavor: Double up on the parsley.
  • Flavor tip: Finish with juice from half a lemon for added freshness.
  • Serving suggestion: Pair with lemon couscous for a quick side.
  • Vegetable pairings: Serve with sautéed or steamed vegetables like squash, zucchini, or asparagus.

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