Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Juicy, Flavorful, and Ready in Minutes! 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor? This Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of just 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and simple seasonings creates an irresistible flavor profile that pairs perfectly with so many sides.

If you’re looking for more easy dinner recipes, you’ll love how versatile this dish can be. The garlic butter sauce coats each bite beautifully, making it perfect over rice, pasta, or even as an appetizer. For those who enjoy chicken dishes, check out our collection of chicken recipes for more inspiration.

2. Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for richer flavor, you can use European-style butter)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds wonderful depth)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning blend)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke point)

For those who love Asian-inspired flavors, you might also enjoy our Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl as another quick dinner option.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breast dry with paper towels – this helps with browning. Cut into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasonings into the chicken pieces to ensure every bite is flavorful. Let it sit for 5 minutes while you prep the garlic.

If you’re looking for another great chicken appetizer, try our Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce for your next gathering.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir occasionally for another 3-4 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally. The total cook time should be about 5-6 minutes for perfectly juicy bites.

For another quick protein option, check out our Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites.

Step 3: Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium and push chicken to one side of the skillet. Add butter to the empty space and let melt. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir garlic butter into the chicken, coating each piece evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. The aroma at this point will be incredible!

If you love garlic butter flavors, you might enjoy this similar recipe from Cooking Classy for comparison.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle with fresh parsley. The residual heat will gently wilt the herbs. For presentation, transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra parsley sprigs. Serve hot with your choice of sides – it pairs wonderfully with our Crustless Spinach Quiche for a complete meal.

4. Tips for the Best Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced for superior flavor
• Cut chicken into uniform sizes for even cooking
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming
• Let chicken rest for 2 minutes after cooking for juicier results
• For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of cream cheese at the end
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness

5. Variations

• Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tsp sriracha
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Add zest of 1 lemon and 1 tbsp juice
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Herb-Infused: Add 1 tsp each of fresh thyme and rosemary
• Parmesan Crusted: Toss with ¼ cup grated parmesan before serving

6. Serving Suggestions

• Over creamy grains for a comforting meal
• With roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
• As an appetizer with toothpicks and our Million Dollar Dip for dipping
• Stirred into pasta with reserved pasta water
• On a bed of greens for a protein-packed salad
• With crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce

7. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating:

• Skillet method: Reheat over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth
• Microwave: Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between
• Oven: 350°F for 10-15 minutes covered with foil

Note: The garlic flavor intensifies when stored, which many people enjoy!

8. Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g (excellent source)
• Fat: 15g (9g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (1g fiber)
• Sodium: 350mg
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 6% DV
• Calcium: 2% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

9. Conclusion

This Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is truly a weeknight dinner lifesaver that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates a dish that’s comforting yet sophisticated enough for company. Whether you serve it as shown here or try one of the delicious variations, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation.

For more quick meal ideas, browse our collection of breakfast recipes that can work for any time of day. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for meal prep too – cook a double batch and enjoy it throughout the week in different ways. Once you try these garlic butter chicken bites, you’ll understand why it’s one of our most popular chicken recipes among our readers!

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