15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is a delicious way to enjoy tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, this dish brings incredible flavor in just a short amount of time. Serve it as an entrée with your favorite sides or as a delightful appetizer — either way, it’s bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• One-Pan Cooking: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates simple chicken bites.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, serve it over rice or pasta, or use it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults.

Tools and Preparation

Getting the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, providing an excellent sear on the chicken for maximum flavor.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly and safely cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Mixing bowl: Makes it easy to toss the chicken with seasonings before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 20 oz (1¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

For Flavoring

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
3. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
4. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
5. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor

1. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet.
2. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

Step 4: Serve

Serve hot as a main dish with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad or as an appetizer. Enjoy!

How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These flavorful 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be served in various delightful ways. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main dish or an appetizer, making them perfect for any occasion.

As a Main Course

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Accompanied by Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a comforting meal.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

As an Appetizer

• On Skewers: Thread the chicken bites onto skewers for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer sauces like ranch or honey mustard alongside for extra flavor.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Serve wrapped in crispy lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To ensure your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Make sure each piece of chicken is well coated in the spice mix for maximum flavor.
• Bold Cooking Method: Use a cast iron skillet to achieve that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Bold Butter Usage: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering it.
• Bold Garlic Timing: Add garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning and turning bitter.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Complement your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with these tasty side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and crunch; simply steam until bright green.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; toast slices of bread with garlic butter.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and balance to the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers freshness and texture.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with the garlic butter sauce.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw refreshes the palate and adds a crunchy element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and the results better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the drying step: Not patting dry the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always dry the chicken pieces with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken can result in bland bites. Ensure each piece is well-coated with flour and spices for maximum flavor.
• Not monitoring cooking time: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or lemon juice can dull the flavors. Always finish with parsley or lemon for a bright touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Place cooled chicken bites in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

How do I customize my 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

This dish goes well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Choose what complements your meal best!

Are these garlic butter chicken bites kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Their tender texture and mild flavor make them perfect for toddlers and picky eaters alike.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and cook when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Their rich flavors and quick preparation make them versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or serve with different sides to suit your taste!

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15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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• Author: Leslie
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. This quick and delicious recipe features tender chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that delivers an explosion of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect as a main course paired with rice or pasta, or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken bites are sure to impress family and friends alike. In just 15 minutes, you can create a delightful dish that satisfies cravings and brings everyone to the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
2. Toss chicken with flour, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter.
4. Cook chicken in a single layer for about 3 minutes until golden; flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add remaining butter, minced garlic, and parsley; cook until fragrant and chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C).
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition. Adjust seasonings based on personal preference.