Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are one of my favorite quick and flavorful meals to make. Bite-sized chicken breast pieces are seared until golden and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s full of aroma and taste. Whether I serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or wrapped in a tortilla, they never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients are simple, yet the flavor is bold and satisfying. The garlic butter is comforting and savory, while a hint of paprika and Italian seasoning gives it just the right amount of spice. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be paired with rice, pasta, salad, or vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

directions

I start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels so they sear better in the butter.

Then, I heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbly, I add the chicken in a single layer. I season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

I cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

Next, I lower the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic. I cook it with the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

Then, I add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until it’s melted and coats all the chicken evenly in a luscious garlic butter sauce.

I remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, for a total time of 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap chicken breast for boneless chicken thighs for an even juicier bite. If I want a spicy kick, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. I also enjoy stirring in a handful of baby spinach at the end for a pop of color and added nutrition.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or a bit more butter to rehydrate the sauce. I avoid microwaving too long to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but I find fresh garlic gives the best flavor in this dish.

What can I serve with garlic butter chicken bites?

I love pairing them with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use a plant-based butter alternative with good results.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

I add it after lowering the heat and stir it constantly to keep it from scorching.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

I can freeze them, but the texture of the chicken and butter sauce is best when freshly made or refrigerated.

What herbs can I use instead of parsley?

Fresh basil or thyme also work beautifully as garnishes.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, I just make sure not to overcrowd the pan so the chicken browns properly.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well in a keto diet.

Can I marinate the chicken first?

It’s not necessary, but I sometimes toss the chicken in a little garlic and olive oil 30 minutes ahead for extra flavor.

How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

The pieces should be golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center, or reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are one of those recipes I keep coming back to. They’re quick, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve them on their own, with sides, or tucked into wraps, they bring comfort and bold flavor to every bite.

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