Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, these garlic butter chicken bites are seared to perfection in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Whether you need a fast weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish is ready in just 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Packed with Flavor – A delicious mix of garlic, butter, and herbs.
- Versatile – Serve over rice, pasta, or as an appetizer with dipping sauces.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well and reheats beautifully.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make this dish quickly and efficiently, you’ll need:
Large Skillet (Cast Iron or Stainless Steel) – Ensures even cooking and a golden-brown sear.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mixing Bowl – To coat the chicken evenly with seasonings.
Measuring Spoons – Helps with accurate seasoning measurements.
Tongs or Spatula – For easy flipping of chicken bites.
Preparation Tips
- Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – They cook quickly and stay tender.
- Pat the Chicken Dry – This helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Preheat the Pan – A hot skillet is key to properly searing the chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches for the best texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz (1¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (helps create a golden crust)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking & Flavor
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with flour, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat evenly.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the pan.
Once hot, place the chicken pieces in a single layer.
Sear undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop a golden crust.
Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until browned.
3. Add the Garlic Butter
Reduce heat to medium.
Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
Stir gently and cook for 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot as a main course with rice, pasta, or salad.
Enjoy as an appetizer with dipping sauces!
Pro Tips & Variations
Add a Citrus Boost – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
Spicy Twist – Sprinkle red pepper flakes for some heat.
Gluten-Free Option – Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Make It Dairy-Free – Replace butter with extra olive oil or vegan butter.
Serving Suggestions
These juicy, flavorful chicken bites pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a light, healthy option, here are some great pairings:
1. Garlic Butter Rice
- A simple yet flavorful side that soaks up the rich garlic butter sauce.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Buttery and smooth, mashed potatoes balance the garlicky chicken perfectly.
3. Roasted Vegetables
- Try broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy, colorful plate.
4. Pasta with Parmesan
- Toss some cooked fettuccine or spaghetti with olive oil, parmesan, and herbs.
5. Fresh Green Salad
- A crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully.
6. Crispy Roasted Potatoes
- Oven-roasted baby potatoes with herbs and olive oil add a nice crunch.
7. Buttery Dinner Rolls
- Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce.
8. Steamed Quinoa
- A protein-rich, gluten-free alternative to rice that complements the dish well.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even simple recipes like this one can go wrong if a few key steps are missed. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Not Drying the Chicken
- Why it’s a mistake: Moisture prevents a golden sear, leading to soggy chicken.
- Fix: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
2. Overcrowding the Pan
- Why it’s a mistake: Overcrowding causes the chicken to steam instead of sear.
- Fix: Cook in batches, leaving space between each piece for a crispy exterior.
3. Cooking at the Wrong Temperature
- Why it’s a mistake:
- Too high: The butter burns, giving a bitter taste.
- Too low: The chicken doesn’t get crispy.
- Fix: Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken and medium heat when adding butter and garlic.
4. Skipping the Flour Coating
- Why it’s a mistake: The flour helps create a golden, crispy crust and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Fix: Always toss the chicken in a light coating of flour before cooking.
5. Adding Garlic Too Early
- Why it’s a mistake: Garlic burns quickly, turning bitter.
- Fix: Add garlic in the last minute of cooking for maximum flavor without burning.
6. Not Letting the Chicken Rest
- Why it’s a mistake: Cutting into chicken too soon releases the juices, making it dry.
- Fix: Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to retain moisture.
7. Not Checking Internal Temperature
Fix: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Why it’s a mistake: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
Proper storage keeps your garlic butter chicken bites fresh and delicious for days:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Meal Prep Tip: Portion into individual containers for quick lunches!
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Reheating properly is key to maintaining juicy, flavorful chicken:
Skillet Method (Best for Texture): Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cook for 2-3 minutes until warm.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for 8-10 minutes.
Microwave Method: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Tip: Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness.
2. What can I use instead of butter?
Swap butter for ghee, coconut oil, or extra olive oil for a dairy-free version.
3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
5. How do I make this dish spicier?
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a kick!
6. What’s the best way to reheat without making the chicken dry?
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or butter to keep it juicy.
7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Final Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Use a hot pan – This ensures a nice golden-brown sear.
Don’t skimp on the garlic butter – It’s the key to rich, flavorful bites!
Let the chicken rest before serving – This locks in the juices.
Pair it with a fresh side – A crisp salad or roasted veggies balance the richness.
Double the recipe – These chicken bites disappear fast!
Conclusion
These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether you serve them as a quick dinner, an easy meal prep option, or a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it out and let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 20 oz 1¼ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp parsley freshly chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
- Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to achieve a golden crust. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly browned.
Add the Garlic Butter Flavor
- Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
Serve
- Serve hot as a main dish with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, or as an appetizer. Enjoy!
Notes
Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet for the best texture.
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