Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Craving something savory, quick, and packed with flavor? This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe delivers just that! Tender chicken breast pieces cooked in a delicious garlic butter sauce make for the perfect weeknight dinner or a delectable appetizer. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these succulent chicken bites will leave everyone asking for more. Read on to discover the easy steps and secret tips to mastering this dish at home. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible recipe!

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What are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are bite-sized pieces of chicken breast, pan-seared until golden and crispy, and then drenched in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The combination of tender chicken and the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs makes this dish a hit at any table. It's quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be served with various sides, making it incredibly versatile for any meal.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

1. 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Chicken breasts are lean, tender, and cook quickly, making them perfect for this dish.
2. 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Flour helps give the chicken a light, crispy coating when pan-fried.
3. ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs well with garlic.
4. ½ teaspoon dried basil – Basil complements the garlic and butter, offering a sweet, slightly peppery taste.
5. ½ teaspoon paprika – Paprika brings a mild smokiness and a pop of color to the chicken bites.
6. ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
7. Freshly ground pepper to taste – Black pepper adds a hint of spice to balance the richness of the butter.
8. 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for pan-searing the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
9. 3 tablespoon unsalted butter – The key to a creamy, rich sauce that coats the chicken bites beautifully.
10. 3 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic is the star of the dish, infusing the chicken and butter with robust flavor.
11. 2 tablespoon parsley, freshly chopped – Adds freshness and color to the final dish.

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, you can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts. Thighs have more fat content, making them extra tender.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep the recipe gluten-free.
• Spicier Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: While it would change the dish completely, you could try making a tofu version by substituting the chicken with firm tofu and using vegan butter for the garlic sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure they sear well in the pan.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the flour, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this flour mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. The oil helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
4. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken bites to the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
5. Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer the pieces to a plate and set aside.
6. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, stirring them into the garlic butter sauce. Toss the chicken to coat evenly in the sauce, and cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through.
8. Finish with Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the chicken bites and give everything a final toss. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a breeze when broken down into simple steps. Start by prepping your ingredients, from cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to mixing your seasonings. The key is to ensure the chicken is seared until golden, creating that perfect crispy exterior. The garlic butter sauce is what elevates this dish — make sure to cook the garlic until fragrant but not burnt. Finally, toss everything together in the buttery sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. By following these steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in under 30 minutes!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you put too many chicken pieces in the pan at once, they will steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Be sure to sauté the garlic in the butter over low heat and watch it closely.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. The herbs and spices add essential flavor to the chicken bites.
• Using Cold Chicken: Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. Cold chicken can lower the temperature of the pan and prevent a good sear.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or appetizer, presentation is key to making them even more appealing.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• As a Main Dish: Serve these chicken bites over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a simple risotto. The garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with starchy sides.
• With Vegetables: Pair the chicken bites with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a fresh side salad to create a balanced meal.
• Over Pasta or Rice: These chicken bites are delicious over a plate of pasta or rice. Simply spoon the chicken and sauce over your favorite carb for a complete, comforting meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve these bites on skewers or toothpicks at a party, accompanied by a dipping sauce like aioli or a tangy yogurt dip.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Garnish with Extra Parsley: Add an extra sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley right before serving for a vibrant, fresh look.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you’re serving this dish to guests, consider using a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation. The skillet also keeps the chicken warm for longer.
• Plating with Lemon Slices: Garnish the plate with fresh lemon slices or wedges. The lemon’s bright color and acidity complement the rich garlic butter sauce.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips

• For Extra Crispy Chicken: After coating the chicken with the flour mixture, let the pieces rest for 10 minutes before cooking. This helps the coating adhere better and creates a crispier exterior.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is key in this recipe for the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it often lacks the same punch.
• Don’t Rush the Garlic Butter Sauce: Take your time cooking the garlic in the butter on low heat to develop the best flavor without burning it.
• Try Zesting a Lemon: For an added layer of flavor, zest a lemon over the chicken just before serving. The zest adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Cooking frozen or partially frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them in the garlic butter sauce to refresh the flavor.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
You can freeze the cooked chicken bites without the garlic butter sauce. When reheating, prepare a fresh batch of sauce to pour over the thawed chicken.

What can I use instead of parsley?
If you’re not a fan of parsley, you can substitute it with fresh cilantro, chives, or even dill for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and quick, easy meals. With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen. Whether served as a main course or a party appetizer, these tender, flavorful chicken bites are sure to become a household favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, follow this recipe, and enjoy a delicious, buttery, garlic-infused meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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