Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the perfect dish when you need a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner. These bite-sized pieces of juicy chicken, cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, are irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family, hosting friends, or simply looking for something delicious that doesn’t take hours to prepare, this recipe has got you covered.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make the most tender and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, explore some tasty variations, and find out how to serve them with the perfect sides. Plus, we’ll share some handy tips to ensure your chicken bites turn out perfectly every time.
Why Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Are So Popular
The popularity of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites comes from their versatility, ease of preparation, and bold flavor. The rich, buttery sauce pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, while the garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish. These chicken bites are great for a variety of meals: serve them as a main course with sides, toss them into salads, or even use them for meal prep throughout the week.
If you’ve enjoyed the rich flavors of our Garlic Shrimp Pasta, you’ll appreciate the similar buttery, garlicky goodness in this recipe!
Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for this recipe. Cut it into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, are essential for infusing the dish with rich garlic flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for the base of the sauce. Butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps sear the chicken and prevents the butter from burning.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice adds freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the butter.
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. For a different take on a garlic-forward recipe, try our Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a heartier, parmesan-infused variation.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Here’s how to make your own Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they have space to sear properly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
- Add 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish the chicken with more chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Although the classic garlic butter chicken is hard to beat, here are a few variations you can try:
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. This version adds a layer of heat that complements the richness of the butter and garlic.
Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
If you love the flavor of parmesan, stir in ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese to the garlic butter sauce just before adding the chicken. This variation provides a cheesy, savory boost that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
Keto-Friendly Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
To make this dish keto-friendly, serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed low-carb vegetables like broccoli or spinach. The butter and garlic sauce is naturally low-carb, making it an excellent option for keto diets.
For more keto-friendly recipes, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, which are also low in carbs and packed with flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Here are a few tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites turn out perfectly:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure to leave enough space between the pieces so they sear properly. Overcrowding the pan can result in steamed chicken instead of golden-browned chicken.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for getting the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic or garlic powder won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
- Adjust Butter to Taste: If you want a richer sauce, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of butter. Just be mindful that more butter can make the dish heavier, so balance it with a squeeze of lemon juice to add brightness.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key when it comes to serving Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Here are some ideas to enhance the visual appeal and serve them as part of a complete meal:
- Serve Over Rice: Garlic butter chicken pairs beautifully with a bed of fluffy white rice or wild rice.
- Add a Side of Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to create a balanced meal.
- Garnish with Lemon Slices: Add a few lemon slices on the plate for a pop of color and to enhance the freshness of the dish.
For another crowd-pleasing option, you can serve these chicken bites as part of a larger spread that includes our Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Storing and Leftovers
Here’s how to store and enjoy any leftovers of your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the cooked chicken bites. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They have a slightly higher fat content, which adds more richness to the dish.
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). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the chicken bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet just before serving to refresh the garlic butter sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet when making the garlic butter sauce. They’ll absorb the flavorful butter and garlic, making a perfect side dish.
What Can I Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Serve these chicken bites with rice, pasta, or even a side of mashed potatoes. They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, these chicken bites are the answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and sure to please. Pair it with a side like our Tex-Mex Ground Beef Potato Skillet for a hearty, satisfying meal everyone will love!
Explore this collection of quick and flavorful chicken Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken, and if you give it a try and like it, we’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with us!