Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with simple ingredients and easy techniques. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula or tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into even, 1-inch cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is nicely coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan).
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it's golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Set aside.
- In the same skillet (wipe it clean if needed), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Stir in the fresh parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and chicken broth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
- Toss the chicken to ensure it's thoroughly coated in the delicious sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Fresh garlic is key for the best flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Adjust the heat with red pepper flakes. Serve over rice, with pasta, as appetizers, in lettuce wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables. You can add mushrooms, use different herbs, make it creamy by adding heavy cream, add cheese, or spice it up with cayenne pepper. Prep ahead by cutting the chicken and mincing the garlic. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist. If the sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry. If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or water.