Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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🍗 Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, golden-brown morsels of chicken sautéed to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. Each bite bursts with savory flavor, balanced by a hint of herbs and a squeeze of lemon. This recipe is fast, simple, and absolutely addictive — perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or as a protein-packed meal prep option. Ready in under 25 minutes, it’s comfort food at its easiest.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size cubes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken:
    Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  2. Sear the Chicken:
    Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan).
    Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
    In the same pan, lower the heat to medium.
    Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).

  4. Combine and Finish:
    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
    Add a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley.

  5. Serve Hot:
    Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, or enjoy as a high-protein snack.

Notes

  • Use thighs for juicier chicken; breasts for leaner bites.

  • Avoid overcrowding the pan for the best sear. Cook in batches if needed.

  • Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to deglaze for extra flavor.

  • Garnish with extra butter or grated Parmesan for a richer finish.

Tips

  • Meal prep tip: Store cooked chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in a skillet with a little butter.

  • Flavor upgrade: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

  • Spicy kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.

  • Crispy texture: Toss chicken lightly in cornstarch before searing.

Servings

  • Serves: 3–4 people

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 15 minutes

  • Total time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 35 g

  • Fat: 19 g

  • Carbohydrates: 2 g

  • Fiber: 0 g

  • Sugar: 0 g

  • Sodium: 420 mg

  • Cholesterol: 115 mg

Health Benefits

  • High in protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

  • Low in carbs: Great for keto and low-carb diets.

  • Garlic benefits: Boosts immunity and heart health.

  • Lemon juice: Adds vitamin C and freshness.

  • Butter and olive oil: Provide healthy fats in moderation.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this with shrimp instead of chicken?
Yes! Shrimp cooks even faster — sauté for just 1–2 minutes per side in the garlic butter sauce.

Q2: What can I serve it with?
Try rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, sautéed veggies, or even in a wrap or salad.

Q3: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, then toss with the garlic butter sauce afterward.

Q4: How can I make it dairy-free?
Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil — the flavor will still be delicious.

Q5: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Absolutely! Freeze cooked bites in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a pan with a bit of butter to refresh flavor.

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