Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With tender, golden chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, pairs well with a variety of sides, and brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen.
What Are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are bite-sized pieces of chicken breast, seasoned and sautéed to golden perfection, then coated in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of Italian seasoning. This versatile recipe is ideal for busy nights and can be served with a range of side dishes for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Packed with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is irresistibly delicious.
- Versatile: Pair with various sides to suit any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680 g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combining and Finishing
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Add-ons: Try it over a bed of pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed above.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil.
- Herb Lovers: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well and add a richer flavor. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What’s the best way to mince garlic?
Use a garlic press or finely chop with a knife for a consistent texture that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining simplicity with gourmet flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting friends, this recipe will impress every time. Give it a try and share your thoughts or any fun variations you’ve created!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, bite-sized chicken pieces sautéed to golden perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680 g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through. - Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Side Pairings: Perfect with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal