Looking for a quick, easy, and mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for any meal? These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are exactly what you need. Bursting with flavor, they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you're preparing dinner for your family or a special meal for guests, this recipe will surely impress. Keep reading to discover how to make these irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, from selecting the right ingredients to perfecting the cooking process. Let’s get started!
What are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are bite-sized pieces of chicken breast that are lightly coated in seasoned flour, then pan-seared to golden perfection. They’re finished in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce, making them irresistibly tender and flavorful. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and rich butter makes this dish a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a topping for salads and pastas, these chicken bites are versatile and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
To make these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the main ingredient. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best results.
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This helps to create a light, crispy coating on the chicken bites.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Provides a hint of sweetness and complements the other herbs.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a slight smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken bites.
- Freshly ground pepper to taste: Adds a touch of spice and balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, giving it a nice golden-brown crust.
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter: Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce, providing richness and depth of flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is the star of the sauce, imparting a fragrant and savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoon parsley, freshly chopped: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to customize your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites or need to make some adjustments based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some substitution and variation ideas:
- Chicken: While chicken breast is ideal for this recipe, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Thighs have a higher fat content, which can add more flavor and tenderness to the bites.
- Flour: For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free flour blend. Each alternative offers a different texture, so choose based on your preference.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or even Italian seasoning if you want to switch up the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also be used in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
- Butter: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute butter with ghee (clarified butter) or a plant-based butter alternative. Ghee will still give you that rich buttery flavor, while plant-based butter will make the dish suitable for those with dairy allergies.
- Garlic: If you love garlic, you can increase the number of garlic cloves for a more intense flavor. Alternatively, you can use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is straightforward and can be done in just a few simple steps. Here’s how:

- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the chicken to sear properly.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce until the pieces are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Parsley: Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the chicken bites for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is simple, but achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture requires attention to detail. Follow this guide to ensure your chicken bites turn out perfectly every time:
- Cut and Dry the Chicken: Uniformly cutting the chicken into similar-sized pieces ensures even cooking. Drying the chicken helps it sear better, creating a crispy exterior.
- Season and Coat the Chicken: The seasoned flour not only adds flavor but also creates a light crust that helps the sauce adhere to the chicken.
- Control the Heat: When searing the chicken, make sure the skillet is hot enough to create a golden-brown crust but not too hot that it burns the chicken. Medium-high heat is usually ideal.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in batches if necessary prevents steaming and ensures that each piece gets properly browned.
- Cook the Garlic Carefully: Garlic can burn quickly, which would result in a bitter taste. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly when sautéing the garlic.
- Coat Evenly: After adding the chicken back to the skillet, toss it thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce to ensure each piece is well-coated and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is easy, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Pan: This can lead to steaming rather than searing the chicken, resulting in less crispy bites.
- Using Too Much Flour: Excess flour can cause the chicken to clump together or create a pasty coating instead of a light, crispy crust.
- Burning the Garlic: Burnt garlic has a bitter taste that can overpower the dish. Always sauté garlic over medium heat and keep a close eye on it.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring the bites remain tender and juicy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites look as delicious as they taste. Here are some serving and presentation tips to elevate your dish:
- Serve Hot: These chicken bites are best served immediately after cooking, while they’re still hot and the garlic butter sauce is fresh and aromatic.
- Garnish with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor with a touch of brightness.
- Use a Stylish Serving Dish: Arrange the chicken bites on a nice platter, and pour any extra garlic butter sauce over the top for added appeal.
- Pair with Side Dishes: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites pair well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a more indulgent meal, serve them with a side of creamy pasta or buttery garlic bread.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks as a delicious finger food for parties or gatherings.
- As a Main Course: Pair them with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
- Over Pasta or Rice: Spoon the chicken bites and garlic butter sauce over pasta or rice for a hearty and satisfying dish.
- In a Salad: Add the chicken bites to a fresh salad for a protein-packed, flavorful addition.
- In Tacos or Wraps: Stuff the chicken bites into tacos or wraps with your favorite toppings for a tasty twist on classic chicken tacos.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
To make your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites visually appealing, consider these presentation ideas:
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the chicken bites neatly on a large platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh parsley or thyme.
- Individual Servings: Serve the chicken bites in small, individual bowls with a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of parsley.
- Family-Style: Present the chicken bites in a large, rustic skillet, and allow everyone to serve themselves. This creates a cozy, communal dining experience.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic has a more vibrant and intense flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Monitor the Heat: Maintaining the correct heat level is crucial for achieving a perfect sear on the chicken without burning the garlic.
- Butter Quality: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. If using salted butter, adjust the additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
- Prep Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents any overcooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the garlic butter sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt or pepper might be needed to balance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Just be mindful that thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the chicken bites are best served fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them in a skillet before serving. Add a bit of extra butter to keep them moist.
Q: What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
A: These chicken bites pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
A: It’s best to freeze the chicken before adding the garlic butter sauce. Reheat the chicken in a skillet, then prepare the sauce fresh and toss the chicken in it.
Q: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
A: Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir constantly. If the skillet is too hot after searing the chicken, lower the heat or remove the skillet from the burner for a moment before adding the garlic.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main course, or a topping for your favorite dishes, they’re sure to be a hit. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this article, you’ll be able to create perfectly seared, tender, and flavorful chicken bites every time. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe featuring tender chicken breast seasoned with oregano, basil, and paprika, then sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in the garlic butter, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with a side of vegetables, over rice, or with a salad.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
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