Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the epitome of comfort food. The chicken is juicy and perfectly seasoned, while the garlic butter sauce adds layers of flavor. The combination of paprika and Italian seasoning infuses the chicken with aromatic warmth, and the fresh parsley garnish adds a refreshing pop of color. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer for your next gathering, these chicken bites are guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, push the chicken to one side. Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown.
4. Combine: Stir the chicken into the garlic butter, ensuring each piece is coated with the rich sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for an extra burst of heat.
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the chicken after cooking, allowing it to melt for a cheesy finish.
• Herb Variations: Try different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano instead of Italian seasoning for a change in flavor.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken bites in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They’ll be slightly juicier and more flavorful, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by cooking it and then storing it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the garlic butter sauce when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make the chicken bites spicier?

For a spicier kick, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil as a substitute for butter, though it will change the flavor slightly. The butter adds a rich, creamy taste, so using olive oil may make the dish a bit lighter.

Can I make this recipe without Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, or rosemary, or simply leave it out for a more garlic-forward flavor.

Can I use minced garlic from a jar instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use jarred minced garlic, but fresh garlic will provide a more vibrant flavor. If using jarred garlic, about 1 teaspoon should be equivalent to 1 clove.

Can I serve these chicken bites with a side dish?

Yes, these chicken bites pair wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center.

Can I freeze these chicken bites?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken bites for up to 3 months. Just allow them to cool, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With tender chicken, aromatic garlic butter sauce, and the perfect blend of spices, it’s a meal that’s easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, appetizer, or meal prep option, these chicken bites are sure to impress with their simple yet delicious taste.

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