Description: This recipe delivers succulent, bite-sized pieces of chicken, perfectly seasoned and bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the ultimate weeknight meal solution for busy families or anyone craving a flavorful and satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Incredibly Fast: From prep to plate, this dish is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
- Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce infuses every bite of chicken with a savory, aromatic richness that’s simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course with your favorite sides, toss it with pasta, or use it as a flavorful topping for salads or grain bowls.
- Kid-Friendly: The bite-sized pieces and delicious flavor profile make this a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Introduction
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding the time to prepare a healthy and delicious meal can often feel like a daunting task. Takeout temptations are everywhere, and the allure of pre-packaged meals can be strong. But what if I told you that you could have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in just 15 minutes, with minimal effort and maximum flavor? That’s precisely what these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites offer.
This recipe is designed for speed and simplicity, utilizing readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking method. The key is to cut the chicken into small, uniform pieces, which allows them to cook quickly and evenly. A light coating of flour and a blend of aromatic herbs creates a flavorful crust that seals in the juices, while the rich garlic butter sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. So ditch the takeout menus and embrace the joy of creating a delicious and satisfying meal in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to experience the magic of these 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites!
Ingredients:
- 20 oz ( 1 ¼ lbs ) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour. This helps to create a light crust and thicken the sauce. You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- ½ tsp dried oregano. Oregano adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the garlic and butter.
- ½ tsp dried basil. Basil contributes a sweet, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ tsp sweet paprika. Paprika adds a touch of color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Smoked paprika can also be used for a smoky depth.
- ½ tsp salt. Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out its natural flavors.
- Freshly ground pepper to taste. Pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish. Freshly ground is always preferred for the best flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil. Olive oil is used for searing the chicken and helps to create a crispy exterior.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided. Butter is the foundation of the rich and flavorful sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content of the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced. Garlic is the star of the show, adding a pungent and aromatic flavor that permeates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is always best.
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped. Parsley adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color. It’s the perfect finishing touch.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This is a crucial step as it removes excess moisture and allows the chicken to brown properly during cooking. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and creates the perfect bite-sized portions.
Step 2: Season the chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with the all-purpose flour, dried oregano, dried basil, sweet paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss the ingredients thoroughly until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the flour and herbs. This coating creates a flavorful crust that seals in the juices and helps to thicken the sauce. Make sure every single piece of chicken is covered, as this ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Heat the skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet (or any heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat. The cast iron provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful sear. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Allow the oil to heat up and the butter to melt completely before adding the chicken. The combination of oil and butter creates a perfect cooking medium that prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan and adds a rich flavor.
Step 4: Cook the chicken: Once the oil is hot and the butter is melted, carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring that the pan is not overcrowded. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for approximately 3 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom. Then, flip the chicken pieces over and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until they are browned on the other side. You are not aiming to cook the chicken through at this stage, just to get a good sear.
Step 5: Add flavor and finish cooking: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir the ingredients together, ensuring that the garlic and parsley are evenly distributed around the chicken. Continue cooking for one more minute, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The garlic will infuse the butter with its pungent flavor, creating a delicious sauce that coats the chicken. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 6: Serve: Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites immediately while hot. The chicken is best enjoyed fresh, when the flavors are at their peak.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Profile: Savory, Garlicky, Aromatic
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- As a Main Course: Serve the chicken bites with a side of rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Over Pasta: Toss the chicken bites with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, for a quick and easy pasta dish.
- In Salads: Add the chicken bites to a fresh salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
- In Wraps or Tacos: Use the chicken bites as a filling for wraps, tacos, or burritos.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken bites as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook the chicken until it is just cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will add the best flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or garlic as needed.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a bright and zesty flavor to the dish.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 40-45g
- Sodium: 400-500mg (depending on added salt)
Conclusion
The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. The tender chicken pieces, bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, are sure to please even the most discerning palates. With its versatility and kid-friendly appeal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself making again and again. So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying meal, reach for this recipe and experience the magic of these incredible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: While fresh chicken breasts are ideal, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to thaw them completely before starting the recipe. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture. Otherwise, the chicken may not brown properly, and the cooking time will be increased. Thawing can be done overnight in the refrigerator or, if you are in a time pinch, using the cold water method. Just be sure to cook the chicken immediately after thawing with cold water.
Q2: I don’t have dried oregano or basil on hand. Can I use fresh herbs instead?
A: Absolutely! Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor even more. If using fresh oregano and basil, you’ll need to use about 1 tablespoon of each, finely chopped. Add them along with the minced garlic and parsley in the final minute of cooking to preserve their fresh flavors and aromas.
Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative, such as coconut oil or olive oil. For a lower-fat version, reduce the amount of butter used or replace a portion of it with chicken broth or water. You can also opt for a leaner cut of chicken, such as chicken tenderloins, which tend to be lower in fat.
Q4: How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A: This dish is a blank canvas for adding vegetables. You can stir-fry chopped bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms in the skillet alongside the chicken. Add the vegetables after the chicken is browned and cook until they are tender-crisp. You could also stir in some baby spinach or kale towards the end of cooking until the leaves wilt. Another great option is to serve the chicken bites over a bed of steamed broccoli or asparagus.
Q5: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: While the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time. You can cut the chicken into pieces and mix it with the flour and herbs up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also mince the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time. However, I recommend cooking the chicken just before serving for the best flavor and texture. If you do need to reheat leftovers, do so gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent them from drying out.
