If you’re looking for a delicious and simple dish, these garlic butter chicken bites are a fantastic choice. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce that enhances their flavor beautifully. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a tasty appetizer for gatherings. Get ready to enjoy a meal that is both satisfying and quick to prepare!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g protein, 22g fat, and 1g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by prepping the chicken; cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve the chicken bites with lemon wedges on the side.
- Enjoy your delicious garlic butter chicken bites!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breast with thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier version. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These garlic butter chicken bites pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great appetizer served with toothpicks and dipping sauces.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. These bites can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; aim for a golden brown color.
- Not seasoning adequately will result in bland bites.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish.
- Skipping the lemon garnish misses out on a fresh flavor boost.
- Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the garlic.
Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- For extra crunch, sear the chicken in a hot skillet.
- Experiment with different spices for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and better texture.
What can I serve with garlic butter chicken bites?
These bites go well with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad. They also make a great appetizer with dipping sauces.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure they’re in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken bites ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve, making it a great option for meal prep.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you prefer some heat.
Conclusion
Garlic butter chicken bites are an easy and flavorful dish that anyone can prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender chicken bites that your family and friends will love!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Begin by prepping the chicken; cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve the chicken bites with lemon wedges on the side.
- Enjoy your delicious garlic butter chicken bites!
Nutrition
