There’s nothing quite like the warmth of homemade meals to turn a mundane evening into a delightful experience. Enter my Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, a dish that marries tender chicken with the rich, irresistible flavors of garlic and butter. This wasn’t just another recipe in my collection; it was the result of a night when my refrigerator felt nearly empty, yet I craved something delicious and comforting.
With the sizzle of garlic and the tantalizing aroma of melting butter in the air, this dish comes together in mere minutes, proving that good food doesn’t have to take hours to prepare. The golden-brown chicken bites, coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, provide a satisfying warmth that is perfect for cozy dinners or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, the vibrant garnish of parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon brightens every bite.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for your guests, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites promise to deliver flavor and elegance effortlessly. Grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this tantalizing adventure!
Why choose Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Simplicity at its heart: This recipe comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Loaded with flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that elevates every bite.
Versatile option: Serve it as an elegant appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or even a great addition to meal prep.
Crowd-pleaser: Its deliciousness is sure to impress both family and friends, leaving them wanting more!
Fuss-free cleanup: With just one skillet used, you can enjoy a delightful meal without a mountain of dishes.
Satisfying comfort food: It’s the ultimate blend of warmth and taste that brings joy to every table!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Ingredients
For the Coating
• All-purpose flour – This helps create a delicious crust on your chicken bites.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Lemon-pepper seasoning – Adds a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with garlic.
• Garlic powder – A must-have for that intense garlic flavor throughout.
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Patted dry for a golden sear; cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
• Canola oil – Used for frying; its neutral flavor lets the garlic shine.
For the Sauce
• Garlic cloves – Finely chopped, releasing their amazing aroma as they cook.
• Chicken stock – Provides a rich base for the sauce and infuses the dish with moisture.
• Cold unsalted European butter – Use this for a creamier, richer sauce; don’t skip the cold for best results.
For Garnish
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to every serving.
• Lemon wedges – The perfect finishing touch; a squeeze brightens the flavors of the garlic butter chicken bites.
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not just a meal; they are an experience waiting to unfold at your dinner table. Enjoy every moment!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
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Whisk together the flour, kosher salt, lemon-pepper seasoning, and garlic powder in a large bowl until well combined. Add the chicken pieces and gently toss to ensure they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; swirl to coat the bottom of the skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add half the chicken pieces. Cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes until browned, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with the remaining chicken and oil.
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Add the minced garlic to the same skillet, keeping the wonderful brown bits intact. Cook for about 20 to 30 seconds while stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden brown.
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Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the skillet using a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 1 minute until the liquid is slightly reduced.
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Incorporate the butter, one piece at a time, stirring until completely melted before adding the next piece. Once the last piece is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the luscious garlic butter sauce over the chicken in the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly.
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Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Optional: Serve over a bed of rice or pasta for an extra satisfying meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
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Perfect Browning: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken; this will create a beautiful golden crust and prevent sticking.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Cook chicken in batches if necessary; overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of frying, compromising that irresistible flavor.
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Garlic Timing: Don’t add garlic too early! Just cook it until fragrant and golden to avoid burning, which can turn it bitter.
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Butter Temperature: Use cold butter for the sauce to achieve a creamy texture; it helps emulsify the sauce beautifully with chicken stock.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed; a hint of extra lemon can brighten the dish, enhancing those garlic butter flavors.
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Fresh Garnish: Always finish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch; it boosts the visual appeal and adds a fresh flavor layer to your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Variations
Feel free to tailor these delightful bites to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a perfect crust without gluten.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter sauce for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic for a delightful heat that will tantalize spice lovers.
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Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce that’s utterly luxurious.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach along with the chicken for added nutrition and color.
For those who love to experiment, these variations can turn this staple recipe into something uniquely yours. With every twist, you’ll find joy in creating something new and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. This keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the chicken bites in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures even heating and maintains texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can coat the chicken with flour and spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The garlic butter sauce can also be made ahead of time—store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce on low heat until warm, then cook the chicken as directed until it’s golden and cooked through. This way, you’ll enjoy all the rich flavors of the chicken bites with minimal effort on busy weeknights, keeping family dinners simple yet indulgent!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Set the stage for an unforgettable dinner with delightful pairings that echo the rich flavors of garlic and butter.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting base that complements your chicken bites perfectly. A drizzle of garlic butter from the dish enhances them, making each bite irresistible.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, garlic bread is a fantastic companion. It not only soaks up the luscious sauce but also resonates with the dish’s garlic theme, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright and vibrant, perfectly steamed broccoli adds a fresh element to your plate. Its slightly crunchy texture balances the tenderness of the chicken bites while introducing a burst of color.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing meet garlicky chicken bites head-on. Toss in some croutons for added crunch, and you’ve got a refreshing side that cleanses the palate beautifully.
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Lemon Rice: The zesty brightness of lemon-infused rice elevates the dish’s flavors. It’s light enough not to overshadow the chicken bites while echoing the citrus notes in your garlic butter sauce.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory notes of garlic and herbs. Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness, providing a delightful contrast that enhances the meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, a rich chocolate mousse serves as the perfect dessert. Its silky texture and subtle sweetness create a wonderful contrast after the savory indulgence of the chicken bites, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Absolutely! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and have a slightly pink hue. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or an off-putting smell. For the best flavor, try to select pieces that are uniform in size so that they cook evenly.
What’s the best method to store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, store your remaining Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken stock to maintain their delicious flavor and prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze these delightful bites, allow them to cool completely first. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the chicken straight from the freezer until heated through, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening enough?
If you find your garlic butter sauce is too runny, don’t fret! After removing the chicken, keep the skillet on medium heat and gently simmer the sauce for an extra minute or two to reduce it further. You can also whisk in an additional tablespoon of flour dissolved in water to thicken the mixture. Just remember to stir continuously while doing this to avoid lumps.
Can I adjust the dietary ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites to make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can! To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, such as rice flour or almond flour. Additionally, make sure to use gluten-free chicken stock as some brands may contain gluten. These adjustments will keep your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites just as delicious and suitable for those with dietary restrictions!
Is it okay for pets to eat Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
It’s best to avoid giving your pets Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. While plain cooked chicken is safe for dogs, garlic can be toxic to them, so it’s important to keep this dish off their plate. Always consult your veterinarian for safe human foods to share with your furry friends.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Irresistibly Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the flour, kosher salt, lemon-pepper seasoning, and garlic powder in a large bowl until well combined. Add the chicken pieces and gently toss to ensure they're evenly coated with the mixture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; swirl to coat the bottom of the skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add half the chicken pieces. Cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes until browned, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with the remaining chicken and oil.
- Add the minced garlic to the same skillet, keeping the wonderful brown bits intact. Cook for about 20 to 30 seconds while stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden brown.
- Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the skillet using a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 1 minute until the liquid is slightly reduced.
- Incorporate the butter, one piece at a time, stirring until completely melted before adding the next piece. Once the last piece is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the luscious garlic butter sauce over the chicken in the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.