Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delicious and simple dish that will satisfy your cravings with just the right balance of savory, buttery flavors and juicy, tender chicken. If you’re looking for an easy yet mouthwatering recipe to whip up on a busy weeknight or to impress guests at a weekend gathering, this is the perfect dish for you. Read on for everything you need to know about making these irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites at home, from ingredients and cooking instructions to serving and presentation tips.

this Recipe

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What are Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are small, bite-sized pieces of chicken that are cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is known for its simplicity, bold flavors, and tender texture. It combines the natural juiciness of chicken breast with the robust flavors of garlic and butter, creating a savory dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. It’s an ideal option for a quick dinner, an appetizer at parties, or even a satisfying snack.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable dish:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch cubes)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for added brightness)

These ingredients form the basic components of your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. You can find most of these ingredients in any grocery store, making this recipe convenient for anyone.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken Sauce

For an extra flavor-packed punch, here’s what you need to whip up the garlic butter sauce that will coat the chicken bites:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4-5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• ½ cup chicken broth (optional, if you want a saucier finish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

The sauce is key to bringing all the flavors together. This simple but flavorful sauce adds richness and a garlicky, buttery depth to your chicken bites. You can adjust the amount of garlic or butter based on your preference.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is versatile, so you can easily make substitutions or variations based on your dietary preferences or what you have available. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

1. Chicken Thighs: Instead of chicken breast, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier result. Thighs tend to have more fat, which can make the dish even more flavorful.
2. Herbs: Swap out thyme for rosemary, oregano, or even fresh basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.
3. Vegan/Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and use tofu or plant-based chicken substitutes instead of real chicken.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
5. Extra Veggies: Include vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli in the recipe. Simply sauté them in the garlic butter alongside the chicken for added nutrition and color.

By making these changes, you can personalize this recipe and create something that fits your unique taste preferences.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To get started on your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear well in the pan. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer, making sure they have enough space to cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and more garlic (if desired). If you like your chicken saucy, pour in the chicken broth at this stage. Stir the sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes if you're using them.
5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the garlic butter sauce until the bites are fully coated. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately.

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How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cut and Season the Chicken: Cut your chicken into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat your pan with oil and butter, then sear the chicken until it's golden brown on all sides. Make sure not to crowd the pan for optimal browning.
3. Prepare the Sauce: After the chicken is cooked, create the garlic butter sauce by melting butter and sautéing garlic in the same pan. Add any additional ingredients like broth or lemon juice to adjust the flavor to your preference.
4. Coat the Chicken in the Sauce: Toss the chicken bites in the sauce and let the flavors combine.
5. Serve Hot: Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding the chicken in the pan can cause it to steam rather than brown. Always cook in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken gets a nice sear.
2. Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn very quickly in a hot pan, which will make it bitter. Always sauté garlic on low to medium heat and add it towards the end of the cooking process.
3. Using Cold Chicken: If the chicken is too cold when you add it to the pan, it may not sear properly. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.
4. Skipping the Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Don’t skip it unless absolutely necessary!

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can elevate the dish to the next level. Here are a few tips for making your meal look as good as it tastes:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a vibrant color contrast and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
2. Serve with Side Dishes: Pair the chicken bites with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a fresh green salad to create a complete meal.
3. Elegant Plating: Arrange the chicken bites on a white plate for a simple, elegant presentation. You can place them in the center and drizzle the garlic butter sauce around the edges.

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How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These chicken bites can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an Appetizer: Stick toothpicks into each piece for easy handling at a party.
• Main Course: Serve them over a bed of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• In a Wrap or Salad: Use the chicken bites to top a salad or wrap them up in tortillas for a quick lunch option.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Family Style: Serve the chicken bites on a large platter, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley, so guests can help themselves.
• Bento Box: Include the chicken bites in a bento box with sides like rice, vegetables, and a dipping sauce for a fun, portable meal.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe Tips

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor for this dish. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, which can taste less robust.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the chicken gives it a crispy, golden crust that adds texture and depth to the dish.
3. Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the chicken bites right after cooking, while they’re still hot and juicy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even browning.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the chicken fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients (cutting the chicken, mincing garlic) ahead of time to save on prep.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a full meal, this recipe will be a hit. Try it out today and enjoy the perfect combination of tender chicken, rich butter, and fragrant garlic. Make sure to follow the tips and tricks above for the best results. Happy cooking!

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