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I honestly can't get enough of these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. They're my go to recipe when I want something quick but totally delicious. The chicken turns out so tender and that garlic butter sauce is absolutely dreamy. I love making these for my family on busy weeknights or when friends pop over unexpectedly it only takes 15 minutes and everyone always asks for seconds.
Why These Are Always a Hit
This recipe saves me so much time in the kitchen. The best part is how versatile it is. Sometimes I serve it over creamy mashed potatoes for dinner other times I put out a plate with toothpicks when I'm hosting. That buttery garlic sauce gets soaked up by whatever you serve it with and turns everything into pure comfort food.
What You'll Need
- Chicken: I usually grab boneless skinless breasts but thighs work amazingly too they stay super juicy.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must here. I love garlic so I tend to be generous with it.
- Butter: Go for unsalted so you can control the saltiness yourself.
- Olive Oil: Just a bit mixed with the butter keeps it from burning in the pan.
- Spices: I use paprika Italian seasoning salt and pepper but feel free to play around.
- Parsley: Adds such a nice fresh touch at the end.
- Extra Options: Sometimes I add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.
Let's Get Cooking
- Season Your Chicken
- Cut up your chicken and season it well with those spices. This is where all the flavor starts.
- Get Your Pan Hot
- I love using my cast iron skillet but any good pan works. Add that butter and oil mixture and get it nice and hot.
- Cook Until Golden
- Cook your chicken in batches so each piece gets perfectly golden and crispy. Don't crowd the pan or they'll steam instead of sear.
- Add The Garlic
- Toss in that fresh garlic at the end just cook it until it smells amazing but watch it carefully so it doesn't burn.
- Finish It Off
- Add a bit more butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. This makes everything look and taste incredible.
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My Kitchen Secrets
Want that perfect golden crust? Don't overcrowd your pan work in batches if you need to. Make sure your pan is really hot before adding the chicken. I always add the garlic near the end so it stays fresh and doesn't burn. Sometimes I splash in some lemon juice or chicken broth with the butter it makes an amazing sauce.
Ways to Serve It
In my house we love these over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice that soaks up all the sauce. When I'm watching carbs I'll serve them with roasted veggies or cauliflower rice. They're perfect for parties too just stick some toothpicks in and watch them disappear.
Prep Ahead and Storage Tips
PREP AHEAD: You can cut and season your chicken the day before just keep it covered in the fridge. Let it warm up a bit before cooking.
LEFTOVERS: Keep them in a container in the fridge they'll stay good for 3 days.
FREEZING: These freeze really well up to 6 months. Just thaw them in the fridge when you're ready to eat.
Fun Ways to Switch It Up
Sometimes I use whole chicken tenders instead of cutting them up it's even quicker. If you love heat add some chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Try coating the chicken in a little flour before cooking if you want extra crispiness. The spice blend is totally up to you make it your own.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- → Why should I not crowd the pan?
Crowding the pan causes the chicken to steam rather than brown. Proper spacing allows each piece to develop a golden crust and better flavor.
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can cut and season the chicken up to a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The dish tastes best when cooked just before serving.
- → What can I serve with these chicken bites?
These chicken bites pair well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The recipe suggests serving with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and blistered tomatoes.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the middle. Cut into a larger piece to check or use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F.
Conclusion
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites transform simple chicken into a flavorful meal in just 15 minutes. The chunks of chicken are seasoned with Italian herbs and cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce until golden brown.