Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are savory, juicy chunks of chicken seared to golden perfection and coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re ideal for a weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or protein-packed snack. Serve them with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)garlicbutterolive oilsaltblack pepperpaprikaparley (optional, for garnish)
directions
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes without moving them to get a golden crust.
Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and browned.
Reduce the heat to low, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted.
Toss the chicken in the garlic butter until evenly coated.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 3-4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 20-22 minutes
Variations
Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty finish.
Mix in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Use Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence for extra aroma.
Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
Serve over mashed potatoes or inside wraps for a hearty meal.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best sear.
What’s the best pan to use?
A heavy skillet like cast iron works best for getting a good crust on the chicken.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free butter substitute for a similar result.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not necessary, but marinating in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour can enhance flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.
What’s the best cut of chicken?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer more juiciness, while breasts are leaner.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking?
Make sure the skillet is hot and the chicken is dry before searing.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy days or entertaining guests. With minimal ingredients and a quick cook time, they deliver big taste without the hassle. Try them once, and you’ll want them on your weekly menu rotation.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approx. 16–20 bites)
- Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Succulent chicken breast bites pan-seared in garlic‑butter and finished with herbs and lemon—a versatile dish served as an appetizer or over rice/pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1‑inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or substitute 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley and basil)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add chicken; cook undisturbed ~3 minutes for browning, then stir and cook 2–3 more minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low; add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Return chicken to skillet; toss to coat. Stir in lemon juice and heat through for 1 minute.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve warm—on its own as appetizer or over rice/pasta as a main course.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a one‑pan meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
- For crispier texture, lightly dredge chicken in seasoned flour or cornstarch before cooking.