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
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I start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
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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.
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Once the chicken is cooked, I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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I return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter until fully coated.
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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.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- 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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