Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, golden-seared pieces of chicken tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. They’re quick to cook, loaded with flavor, and perfect for serving over rice, pasta, or with a side of veggies. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or looking for a fast dinner, this one always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and versatile these chicken bites are. They’re made with pantry staples, cook in under 20 minutes, and pack a serious punch of flavor. The garlic butter gives them a luscious coating, and they’re easy to pair with just about anything. I often double the batch because they disappear fast.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Olive oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic (minced)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

  1. I start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and sear the chicken bites in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 3–4 minutes per side.

  3. Once the chicken is cooked, I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

  4. In the same skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. I return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter until fully coated.

  6. I finish by garnishing with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 20 minutes total from prep to plate. It’s a fast, weeknight-friendly meal that still tastes like I put in way more effort.

Variations

  • I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine for brightness.
  • A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives it a subtle kick.
  • I switch up the herbs—thyme, rosemary, or even Italian seasoning work well.
  • For a one-pan meal, I throw in broccoli florets or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a bit more butter or broth to keep them moist. The microwave works in a pinch, but I try not to overheat to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. I’ve used both, and thighs tend to stay even juicier and more flavorful.

What’s the best way to get a good sear?

I don’t overcrowd the pan and make sure the chicken pieces are dry before searing. A hot pan and a bit of oil give that golden crust.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so. The flavors are mild and buttery, and kids love the bite-sized pieces. I usually skip the red pepper flakes when cooking for little ones.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, I cook the chicken and reheat it gently when ready to serve. It holds up well for meal prep.

What should I serve with it?

I love it over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter. A side salad or steamed veggies rounds it out nicely.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are one of those easy, crave-worthy dishes I can throw together anytime. They’re packed with flavor, ready in no time, and pair well with almost anything. Whether I’m meal prepping or need a last-minute dinner idea, this recipe always delivers.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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  • Author: Linda
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, juicy pieces of chicken seared to golden perfection and tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This easy and flavorful 20-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd—delicious served over rice, pasta, or veggies.


Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Olive oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear chicken in batches, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and toss in garlic butter until coated.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add lemon juice or a splash of white wine for brightness.
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Try herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation.
  • For a one-pan meal, add broccoli or green beans near the end of cooking.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a skillet.

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