15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe: Tasty Weeknight Magic

Whipping up these delectable garlic butter chicken bites takes mere moments to craft a mouthwatering meal.

Succulent pieces of tender meat shimmer with golden, aromatic seasonings.

Crispy edges promise a delightful crunch that melts in your mouth.

Minimal kitchen skills unlock maximum flavor in this quick culinary adventure.

Fresh ingredients combine effortlessly for a restaurant-quality dish you can easily master.

Pantry staples work magic, turning simple chicken into something spectacular.

Grab a skillet and prepare to impress everyone at the dinner table with this irresistible creation.

Flavor Variations For Garlic Butter Bites

  • Herb-Infused Chicken Bites: Replace paprika with dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Bites: Add chili powder, cumin, and red pepper flakes to create a zesty, bold taste that packs a punch.
  • Asian-Inspired Garlic Chicken: Swap lemon juice with rice vinegar and add a splash of soy sauce for an umami-rich Asian-style version.
  • Creamy Parmesan Chicken Bites: Stir in grated parmesan cheese and a touch of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce for a rich, indulgent finish.

Ideal Pairings For Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Perfectly crispy chicken bites drizzled with rich garlic butter sauce make an irresistible main dish for weeknight dinners. Pair these juicy morsels with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Pack these protein-packed chicken bites in lunch containers with steamed rice and roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Meal prep becomes effortless and delicious with this simple recipe.
  • Create a stunning appetizer spread by arranging chicken bites on a large wooden board. Surround them with olives, feta cheese, cucumber slices, and warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-style gathering that impresses guests.

Storage Advice For Garlic Butter Bites

  • Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
  • Place cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date of storage.
  • Warm refrigerated chicken bites in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave for 30-45 seconds, checking to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of water or butter to restore moisture.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they’re cut into similar-sized bite-sized pieces for even cooking and reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Chicken should be white throughout with no pink centers and juices running clear.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your spices and butter are certified gluten-free if you have strict dietary requirements.

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoned chicken bites in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving to maintain the crispy exterior and maximum flavor.

15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Highlights

  • Simplify Cooking Process: One-pot wonder that minimizes kitchen cleanup and reduces cooking steps, making meal preparation stress-free and straightforward.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein from sausage and vitamins from sweet potatoes and vegetables, creating a balanced and wholesome meal in a single pot.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows personalization with optional add-ins like kale, spinach, or red pepper flakes, catering to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Comfort Food Champion: Hearty soup delivers warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly days or when craving a comforting, nourishing meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Ingredients For 15-Minute Garlic Butter Bites

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean and tender meat that becomes juicy and flavorful when seasoned and quickly cooked.
For the Seasonings:
  • Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: A blend of spices that adds depth, warmth, and savory notes to the chicken.
For the Cooking Fats and Aromatics:
  • Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.
  • Butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps create a delicious garlic butter sauce.
  • Minced Garlic: Provides a sharp, pungent taste that infuses the entire dish with aromatic goodness.
For the Optional Brighteners:
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the butter.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright green herb that provides a fresh garnish and light herbal note.
  • Lemon Wedges: Offers an extra burst of citrus for those who want more zesty flavor.

How To Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

How To Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Spice Up The Chicken

Mix chicken with a zesty blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sizzle And Brown

Warm a large skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat. Carefully place chicken pieces into the pan, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden exterior.

Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chicken is perfectly cooked through, transfer to a separate plate.

Step 3: Create Aromatic Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add minced garlic. Swirl and sauté for about one minute, releasing those incredible garlic aromatics that will make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 4: Combine And Coat

Splash in fresh lemon juice if desired. Return the chicken to the skillet, gently tossing to ensure each piece gets luxuriously coated in the rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce.

Step 5: Finish With Fresh Flair

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.

Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips For Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Swap chicken breasts with thighs for richer flavor and more tender meat.
  • Use gluten-free seasoning options if preparing for gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior.
  • Adjust heat to medium-low to prevent burning garlic and butter.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra kick and subtle spiciness if desired.
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15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe


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4.5 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic butter chicken bites deliver a flavor explosion straight from home kitchens. Quick pan-seared chicken pieces mingle with rich butter and aromatic garlic, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsps unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Blend paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a vibrant seasoning mix for the chicken pieces.
  2. Warm olive oil and a portion of butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a golden cooking surface.
  3. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the skillet, allowing each piece to develop a crispy, caramelized exterior while cooking thoroughly for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Transfer perfectly cooked chicken to a separate plate, preserving the flavorful cooking juices in the skillet.
  5. Introduce remaining butter and finely chopped garlic to the same skillet, releasing aromatic flavors for approximately 60 seconds.
  6. Splash in fresh lemon juice to enhance the sauce’s brightness and complexity.
  7. Gently return chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring each morsel is luxuriously coated with the fragrant garlic butter sauce.
  8. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the dish for a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
  9. Present the chicken bites with optional lemon wedges, allowing diners to add an extra citrusy zest if desired.

Notes

  • Swap chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version that maintains the same delicious garlic butter flavor profile.
  • Use gluten-free seasonings and ensure your butter is certified gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Pat chicken pieces dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and perfect golden-brown exterior during cooking.
  • Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breast meat for a more tender and juicy result that stays moist during quick cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 254 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.1 g
  • Sodium: 143 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1.2 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 83 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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