If you are searching for a quick, flavorful dish that can turn any weeknight dinner into a delightful experience, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe is your new go-to! With tender, golden chicken pieces coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce sprinkled with fresh parsley, every bite bursts with a comforting richness that feels both indulgent and homemade. Minimal prep meets maximum taste in a recipe that’s as simple to whip up as it is satisfying to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list straightforward and approachable means this recipe is perfect for busy evenings, while each component plays a key role in building layers of texture and flavor.
- 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 1/4-inch pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect bite-sized portions.
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps achieve a lovely golden crust on the chicken when sautéed.
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbal punch that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Provides a healthy cooking fat that helps brown the chicken.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided: Creates that rich, silky sauce that makes these chicken bites so irresistible.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves): Infuses the dish with vibrant, aromatic flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, bright note and a pop of beautiful green color.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this step is critical to achieving that perfect golden sear. Then, sprinkle the chicken with flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated, ensuring the flour sticks well to create a wonderful crust during cooking.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan and Add Fat
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter, swirling the pan so the melted butter coats the surface evenly. This combination of fats guarantees rich flavor and prevents the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Arrange the chicken in a single layer with some space in between to allow it to brown rather than steam. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side until golden and crisp, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until the chicken is nearly done. This method locks in juiciness while giving each bite a satisfying texture.
Step 4: Add Garlic, Butter, and Parsley
Lower the heat slightly and toss in the remaining two tablespoons of butter in small pieces, along with the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Cook everything together for about one minute until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F and the garlic infuses the butter with its irresistible aroma.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling extra fresh parsley right before serving adds a fresh aroma and vibrant pop of green that invites you to dig in. A wedge of lemon on the side wouldn’t just enhance freshness but also cuts through the rich butter, balancing flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Rice or crusty bread are also excellent choices to help soak up every last bit of that heavenly garlic butter sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these chicken bites atop creamy polenta or toss them into a pasta dish for a quick garlic butter chicken pasta. You can even turn them into a hearty wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a handheld version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover chicken bites in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps retain moisture and flavor, so you can enjoy your meal later without losing any of that garlic butter goodness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze for longer storage, spread the cooked chicken bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months, making them perfect for a make-ahead meal.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat to preserve texture and flavor, adding a little butter or olive oil if the chicken looks dry. Avoid microwaving to prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery or losing its crisp exterior.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for an even juicier and more flavorful bite. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the butter?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or use extra olive oil to maintain the richness, though the flavor may be a bit different without butter’s creamy depth.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic will bring gentle heat without overpowering the garlic butter flavor. You can adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
The chicken bites are best served fresh for maximum flavor and texture, but you can prep the chicken with the seasoning and flour mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it to save time.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, though adding it at the beginning of cooking is best since it won’t have the same bright flavor as fresh. Alternatively, fresh basil or chives could give a nice herbal twist.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe is a little treasure that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Once you try this dish, it’s bound to become one of your favorite quick dinners to share with family or friends. Give it a go and savor every buttery, garlicky bite!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 9 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner option that comes together in just 15 minutes. Tender pieces of chicken breast are coated in a seasoned flour mixture, pan-seared to a golden brown, and finished with a luscious garlic butter sauce and fresh parsley for a delicious meal with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper)
Cooking Fats & Flavorings
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot, preparing it for searing the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- Coat the chicken: Sprinkle the flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken pieces. Toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with the flour mixture and no excess flour remains on the surface.
- Start cooking the chicken: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the heated skillet. Allow the butter to melt and coat the pan by tilting it gently.
- Sear the chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece to encourage browning instead of steaming. Cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip and continue cooking: Turn the chicken pieces over and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are almost fully cooked through.
- Add garlic butter and parsley: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in small pieces, along with the minced garlic and chopped parsley, to the skillet. Cook everything together for 1 more minute, stirring gently to coat the chicken and cook the garlic until fragrant. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.
- Serve immediately: Remove from heat and serve the garlic butter chicken bites hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry is essential for getting a nice golden crust.
- Keeping space between chicken pieces prevents steaming and promotes browning.
- Fresh garlic and parsley brighten the flavor; avoid overcooking the garlic to prevent bitterness.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger servings.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked at 165°F for food safety.
