15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe

When you're short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the perfect solution! This easy one-pan recipe delivers juicy chicken coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that comes together in just 15 minutes. With minimal prep and clean-up, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a protein-packed snack. Serve these bites with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s fast, flavorful, and sure to please.

What Are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are small, bite-sized pieces of chicken, seared to perfection in a hot pan and then tossed in a buttery garlic sauce. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them an irresistible option for a quick dinner, appetizer, or even meal prep. The combination of golden chicken, rich butter, and fragrant garlic is simply mouthwatering. Best of all, this one-pan recipe takes just 15 minutes to make, saving you time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To make these simple and tasty Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a touch of brightness)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
• Herb variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the butter sauce for extra flavor.
• Creamy garlic sauce: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Keto-friendly: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly! Just make sure to pair it with low-carb sides like sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to whip up these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites? Follow these quick and easy steps, and dinner will be on the table in no time!

How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, making sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Toss the chicken pieces to evenly coat them with the seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
3. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt and bubble slightly.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the lemon juice (if using) for a bright, tangy contrast.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly.
2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is a simple recipe, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites come out perfect every time:

• Overcrowding the pan: Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will prevent the chicken from getting that golden-brown sear. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken bites cook quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid drying them out. Remove them from the heat as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so be sure to sauté it gently for only 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here’s how to serve and present them for the best results:

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• With rice: Serve the chicken bites over steamed rice, allowing the garlic butter sauce to soak into the grains.
• With pasta: Toss the chicken bites with your favorite pasta, along with extra garlic butter sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal.
• Low-carb option: Pair the chicken with a light salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a low-carb meal.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Serve the chicken bites in a shallow dish, drizzled with extra garlic butter sauce and topped with fresh parsley.
• Garnish the plate with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish.
• Serve as an appetizer on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, making it great for parties or family gatherings.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked:

• Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken bites rest for a couple of minutes before tossing them in the garlic butter sauce. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
• Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add a little more butter and a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the pan before returning the chicken.
• Meal prep option: These chicken bites are great for meal prep! Make a big batch and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a pan or the microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and will be juicier. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

Q: Can I make these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an air fryer?
A: Yes! To air fry, toss the seasoned chicken in a little oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. Then toss the cooked bites in the garlic butter sauce.

Q: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
A: You can freeze the cooked chicken bites (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the fridge, reheat, and toss them in freshly made garlic butter sauce.

Q: What sides go well with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
A: These chicken bites pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, flavorful meal on the table with minimal effort. With juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as an appetizer, these chicken bites are versatile and endlessly satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create such a mouthwatering dish!

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