Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Garlic butter chicken bites are a mouthwatering dish that blends juicy chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce. These tender morsels cook fast and carry a burst of flavor in each bite. You can serve them with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables for a full meal that feels both casual and special.

People love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, yet it still has a gourmet flair thanks to the fragrant garlic and smooth butter. If you’re searching for a new chicken recipe to delight your family or guests, garlic butter chicken bites might become your next go-to choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and taste. It doesn’t require fancy cooking skills or hard-to-find items. You can use chicken thighs or chicken breast—either way, the result will be juicy and flavorful. There’s a homey warmth that comes from the garlic butter sauce, and each bite is loaded with that classic mix of butter, garlic, and a hint of herbs.

It’s also flexible: you can add extra spice if you like some heat, or toss in vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a nutritious spin. Plus, the recipe works in a skillet on the stove, or you can adapt it for an air fryer or oven. You’ll appreciate how the chicken pieces turn golden brown, and how the meal comes together quickly. This is an easy chicken recipe that keeps everyone excited about mealtime.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Below is a clear list of what you’ll need. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. This list focuses on everyday items, so you don’t have to search far and wide.

1. Chicken
   • 1½ to 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast (cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces).
   • You can use chicken tenders or boneless chicken thighs. Both will give juicy results. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast works too.
2. Seasonings
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1 teaspoon onion powder
   • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
   • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
   • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
   • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or more if you like a bolder flavor)
3. Garlic and Herbs
   • 4-5 cloves fresh garlic (mince the garlic, or use minced garlic from a jar if you’re pressed for time)
   • 2-3 tablespoons chopped parsley (fresh parsley brightens up the dish at the end)
4. Fats and Oils
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil (use more if needed, based on your skillet size)
   • 2 tablespoons butter (you may add more for a richer sauce)
   • Some people like to do a mix of butter or oil to prevent burning. For example, 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil can be melted together.
5. Optional Extras
   • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (for those who like extra kick)
   • ½ cup chicken broth (if you want a thinner sauce or need extra moisture)
   • Lemon wedges for that lemon garlic butter spin (squeeze fresh lemon over the chicken bites before serving)
   • Parmesan cheese (a sprinkle at the end adds a creamy finish)

Keep these essentials handy, and remember you can swap or skip certain ingredients if they don’t suit your style.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces of chicken that are roughly the same size, so they cook evenly.
2. Pat each piece dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the chicken sear better.
3. Season the chicken by placing it in a bowl with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and (if desired) red pepper flakes. Toss to coat all sides. This step ensures each chicken bite is packed with flavor from the start.

2. Choose Your Cooking Method

You can make garlic butter chicken bites using different tools. A common way is in a skillet on the stove, but you can also use an air fryer or an oven. Each method offers a slightly different texture. Let’s walk through each one:

A. Stovetop in a Skillet

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. A cast-iron skillet works well because it retains heat and creates a nice sear.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet once it’s hot.
3. Add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan. If you have more chicken than fits comfortably, cook it in batches.
4. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Check if it’s turning golden brown at the edges.
5. Flip the pieces and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes.
6. Once the chicken is close to done (internal temperature around 165°F or 74°C), transfer the chicken to a plate. Keep the skillet on the stove.

B. Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to around 380°F.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
3. Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer, leaving space between pieces.
4. Cook for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to help the chicken brown on all sides.
5. Check doneness; if the chicken isn’t fully cooked, give it a few more minutes. Once it’s done, set the chicken aside.

C. Oven Method

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer.
4. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. If you want more color, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

3. Create the Rich Garlic Butter Sauce

Regardless of your cooking method for the chicken, you’ll make the garlic butter sauce on the stovetop. If you used the stovetop method already, you can use the same skillet. If you air-fried or baked your chicken, use a clean skillet or pan.

1. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil (if needed) and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Keep heat at medium.
2. Wait for the butter to melt.
3. Add minced garlic to the butter. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn. You want it fragrant but not browned.
4. If you like more sauce, pour in chicken broth (about ½ cup). Let it simmer for a minute or two, reducing slightly.
5. Stirring gently, add the chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Use a spoon to coat each piece with that rich garlic butter goodness.

4. Infuse with Herbs and Final Touches

1. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken.
2. If you like heat, add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce now or a bit more red pepper flakes.
3. Let everything simmer together for 1-2 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the flavors.
4. Do a quick taste test. Adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as you like.
5. Turn off the heat once the chicken is cooked through (165°F in the thickest piece) and the sauce is slightly thickened.

By now, your garlic butter chicken bites should be glossy, aromatic, and ready to serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Vegetables: Serve with green beans, broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus. You can steam or sauté these veggies. The vibrant color pairs well with the golden brown chicken.
• Over Pasta or Rice: Spoon your chicken bites and sauce on top of pasta for a quick dinner. If you want a creamy base, stir a bit of heavy cream into the sauce. Or, serve with plain rice or butter rice to soak up every drop.
• As a Party Appetizer: Stick toothpicks in the chicken bites, place them on a platter, and let guests dip them in extra sauce or a yogurt-based dip.
• With a Side Salad: A crisp garden salad adds refreshing contrast. Lightly drizzle a lemon garlic dressing for a unified flavor.

Storage Guidelines

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let them cool fully, then place the chicken in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use it within 2-3 months for the best quality.
3. Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

FDA Food Storage Guidelines: The FDA offers detailed information on proper refrigeration and freezing techniques to ensure food safety and quality.

Following these tips keeps the chicken bites moist and tasty even after storage.

Helpful Notes

1. Choosing the Right Chicken
   • Boneless chicken thighs usually stay juicy due to their higher fat content.
   • Chicken breast is leaner. It cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
   • Some cooks like to mix both for a balance of flavors and textures.
2. Avoid Overcooking
   • Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures tender chicken rather than dry bites.
   • Chicken that’s cooked too long may turn rubbery, so pull it off the heat as soon as it’s done.
3. Flavor Variations
   • Lemon Garlic Butter: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking to create that lemon garlic butter pop.
   • Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. This makes a creamy garlic butter sauce perfect for pasta.
   • Cheesy Finish: Grate a bit of Parmesan cheese on top. It melts nicely over the hot chicken.
   • Herb Mix: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for a different taste.
4. Spice Level
   • Add hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce if you enjoy heat.
   • Keep it mild by leaving out spicy elements altogether.
5. Skillet Tips
   • Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps in getting that golden brown color.
   • If you see too much liquid forming during cooking, raise the heat or remove some liquid to help the chicken sear.
   • A bit of butter or oil helps prevent sticking, but don’t be shy to add more if needed.
6. Possible Side Dishes
   • Garlic Butter Steak Bites: You can pair these chicken bites with steak bites for a surf-and-turf style meal.
   • Mashed Potatoes: The comforting taste of potatoes works wonderfully with rich garlic butter sauce.
   • Crispy Bread: A crusty loaf can help you scoop up leftover sauce.
7. Doubling the Recipe
   • If you want more servings, simply double the ingredients. Cook in batches so each piece sears properly. Crowding the pan leads to steaming instead of browning.
   • For large gatherings, consider using multiple skillets or the oven to speed things up.
8. Safety First
   • Always wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken.
   • Keep raw chicken separate from vegetables or other ready-to-eat items.
   • Clean cutting boards, knives, and surfaces thoroughly.

These tips help you fine-tune the recipe to your liking and ensure the best results every time.

Conclusion

Garlic butter chicken bites bring together tender chicken, fresh garlic, and creamy butter in a way that’s both simple and satisfying. This recipe stands out for its adaptable nature—you can tailor the seasonings, spice level, and side dishes to fit your mood. Whether you prefer boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast, the outcome is juicy and loaded with flavor. A quick sear in a skillet creates that sought-after golden crust, while the garlic butter sauce adds a savory finish. Plus, you can serve it with pasta, rice, veggies, or even on its own as a casual appetizer.

If you’re seeking a comforting weeknight dinner that doesn’t take ages to prep, these chicken bites are worth a spot on your menu. Feel free to make them spicy or keep them mild, and don’t hesitate to experiment with extra herbs. Once you’ve given it a try, you might find yourself cooking this dish on repeat. Drop a comment with your personal touches or share it with friends who love easy chicken bites. It’s a practical recipe that can quickly become a family favorite.

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Garlic butter chicken bites

Rebecca Blumer

Garlic butter chicken bites are a mouthwatering dish that blends juicy chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce. These tender morsels cook fast and carry a burst of flavor in each bite. Serve them with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables for a full meal that feels both casual and special.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Air Fryer (optional)
• Oven (optional)

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 1½ to 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasonings

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper or more for bolder flavor

Garlic and Herbs

• 4-5 cloves garlic minced
• 2-3 tbsp parsley chopped

Fats and Oils

• 2 tbsp olive oil use more if needed
• 2 tbsp butter add more for a richer sauce

Optional Extras

• 1 tbsp hot sauce for extra kick
• ½ cup chicken broth for a thinner sauce
• lemon wedges for fresh flavor
• Parmesan cheese optional, for creamy finish

Instructions

 

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to help sear properly.
• In a bowl, season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly.
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Place the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
• Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add butter and remaining olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in chicken broth (if using) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to slightly reduce.
• Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and coat with the garlic butter sauce. Stir in chopped parsley.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra spice, increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce. Pair with rice, pasta, or veggies for a full meal.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 420mg

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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