If you are on the hunt for a dish that is bursting with bold flavors yet quick and straightforward to prepare, the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. Tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious layer of garlic butter make every bite irresistibly savory and melt-in-your-mouth delightful. It’s a recipe that combines simplicity with intense flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients, each playing an important role in creating that rich, comforting taste and vibrant texture. The seasonings bring the aromatic punch, while the butter adds that decadent, silky finish you dream about.
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: The key protein that absorbs all the delicious seasonings and stays tender.
- 3 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: Infuses the chicken with a perfect blend of herbs and robust garlic flavor.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided): Helps achieve that golden brown sear and prevents sticking, while adding a light fruity note.
- ¼ cup butter: The star that melts into a rich, creamy sauce coating every bite.
- 6 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic is essential for an intense, aromatic flavor boost that elevates the entire dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-size pieces using a sharp knife. Drizzle these chicken bites with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss them in the garlic and herb seasoning to evenly coat every piece. This step ensures the chicken is packed with flavor even before cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan and cook them for about three minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust. This searing process locks in the juices and gives the chicken a satisfying texture.
Step 3: Add Butter and Garlic
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, add the butter and minced garlic cloves directly to the skillet. Let the butter melt slowly, infusing the garlic as it simmers and creating a fragrant, silky sauce. The garlic softens just enough to complement the chicken without overpowering it.
Step 4: Toss and Season
Toss the chicken pieces in the melted garlic butter until they are well coated. Finish by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For a touch of extra flavor and a hint of heat, sprinkle garnishings like fresh parsley, parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes. These little touches take the dish from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes transforms your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe from simple to spectacular. Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a refreshing herbaceous brightness that balances the richness. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty dimension, while red pepper flakes offer a subtle kick that energizes the palate.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice soak up the luscious garlic butter sauce perfectly. For something lighter, steamed green beans or a crisp mixed green salad create a wonderful contrast that lets the chicken shine while keeping the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve these chicken bites over a bed of creamy polenta or swirl them into pasta for an elevated weeknight dinner. You can even skewer the bites and serve with a garlic aioli for a fun appetizer option at your next gathering. Presentation is a fantastic way to bring excitement to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover garlic butter chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them well sealed retains that buttery garlic flavor and keeps the chicken tender.
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead of time for busy days, these chicken bites freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this dish anytime you want with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken bites in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying out. You can add a little bit of butter or olive oil to refresh the richness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can alter the texture and flavor of the garlic butter.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and richness, which complements the garlic butter wonderfully. Just adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have garlic and herb seasoning?
No problem—try mixing your own with garlic powder, dried oregano, thyme, and parsley. This way, you can customize the herb flavors to your liking and still achieve a flavorful coating for the chicken bites.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe isn’t spicy, but if you like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes as a garnish or mixing some into the seasoning will give you that perfect kick while keeping all the garlic butter goodness intact.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil, and ensure any garnishes you use are dairy-free as well. The garlic and herb flavors will still shine beautifully.
What’s the best pan to use for cooking this recipe?
A cast iron skillet is ideal because it gets very hot and maintains even heat, giving your chicken bites a fantastic sear and caramelization. If you don’t have cast iron, a heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet will work well too.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe is like treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dish made effortlessly at home. It’s quick, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, perfect for any night you crave something comforting and special. Once you taste those garlicky, buttery bites, this recipe will hold a cherished place in your kitchen rotation. Give it a shot and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite for everyone around your table!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are quick, tender, and flavorful pieces of chicken cooked in a garlic herb seasoning and finished in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or a main dish served alongside your favorite sides, these bites combine the richness of butter and garlic with a touch of seasoning for a savory, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
Sauce and Garnish
- ¼ cup butter
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. Drizzle the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss evenly with the garlic and herb seasoning to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for approximately three minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Add the butter and minced garlic cloves to the heated skillet with the chicken. Cook until the butter has fully melted and the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Finish and Garnish: Toss the chicken pieces in the garlic butter sauce to fully coat. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier bite if preferred.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic in the butter; cook it gently until just fragrant.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of heat.
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
