Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa

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Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa

🥘 Recipe Description

Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa is a vibrant, protein-packed dish that balances savory and fresh flavors beautifully. Juicy, pan-seared chicken bites are infused with garlic and cilantro, then topped with a refreshing salsa made from sweet strawberries, tangy kiwi, and a hint of lime. This recipe is perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or an impressive appetizer that feels gourmet yet is easy to prepare.

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

  • Total Time: ~30 minutes

🍽 Servings

  • Serves: 4

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup chicken + ½ cup salsa

🛒 Ingredients

For the Garlic Cilantro Chicken

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)

  • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

  • Juice of ½ lime

For the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa

  • 1 cup strawberries, finely diced

  • 1 large kiwi, peeled and diced

  • 2 tbsp red onion, very finely minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

  • Pinch of salt

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Salsa

  1. In a medium bowl, combine strawberries, kiwi, red onion, and cilantro.

  2. Add lime juice, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt.

  3. Gently toss to combine.

  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  3. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

  4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.

3. Serve

  • Plate the chicken bites and generously spoon kiwi strawberry salsa over the top.

  • Serve immediately.

🌟 Chef’s Notes

  • The salsa adds brightness and acidity, perfectly cutting through the richness of the chicken.

  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for juicier results.

  • This dish works well as a taco filling, salad topper, or rice bowl protein.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed for proper browning.

  • Dice fruit evenly: Smaller pieces give better texture and flavor distribution.

  • Fresh cilantro matters: Dried cilantro will not deliver the same aroma.

  • Make ahead: Salsa can be made up to 6 hours in advance.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 32 g

  • Carbohydrates: 18 g

  • Sugars: 12 g

  • Fat: 14 g

  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: ~420 mg

(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.)

❤️ Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.

  • Vitamin C Rich: Kiwi and strawberries boost immunity and skin health.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Garlic and cilantro offer natural anti-inflammatory compounds.

  • Low Carb & Gluten-Free: Suitable for many dietary needs.

  • Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil supports cardiovascular health.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes! Skewer the chicken bites and grill over medium heat for 8–10 minutes.

Q: How long does the salsa last?
A: Best within 24 hours, but can be refrigerated up to 48 hours.

Q: Can I make this spicy?
A: Add diced jalapeño to the salsa or extra chili flakes to the chicken.

Q: Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?
A: Yes—store chicken and salsa separately for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad.

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