This irresistible garlic butter chicken bites recipe delivers tender, golden, and flavor-packed chicken pieces in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a versatile appetizer, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

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Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy schedules—ready in only 15 minutes.
• Versatile: Serve as a main dish or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Flavorful: Rich garlic butter sauce infuses each bite with savory goodness.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To ensure the best results, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Cutting board: For safely and efficiently prepping chicken.
• Sharp knife: Essential for cutting uniform, bite-sized pieces.
• Mixing bowl: For coating the chicken in seasoning.
• Large skillet (preferably cast iron): Provides even heating for a crispy sear.
• Tongs or spatula: For flipping the chicken without breaking its crust.

Preparation Tips

• Pat chicken dry: Removing excess moisture ensures a golden, crispy crust.
• Preheat the skillet: A hot skillet is key to achieving that golden brown sear.
• Have ingredients ready: Pre-measure spices, butter, and parsley for seamless cooking.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 20 oz (1¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces.
• In a mixing bowl, add chicken pieces, flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.

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2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
• When the oil is hot and butter is melted, add chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet.
• Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes to allow a golden crust to form.
• Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly browned.

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3. Add Garlic Butter

• Reduce the heat slightly. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet along with the minced garlic and freshly chopped parsley.
• Stir occasionally and cook for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
• Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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4. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the garlic butter chicken bites hot, either as a main dish or an appetizer.
• Pair with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

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Notes and Variations

• Add Brightness: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving for a zesty kick.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Extra Flavor: Top with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Serving Suggestions and Recipe Perfection Tips

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Serving Suggestions

Enhance your meal by pairing these garlic butter chicken bites with complementary sides. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Butter Rice

• A simple, fluffy rice dish cooked with garlic butter echoes the flavors of the chicken perfectly.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Velvety mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the flavorful chicken bites.

1. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables

• Choose broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to add freshness and color to your plate.

1. Pasta with Olive Oil or Alfredo Sauce

• A light olive oil pasta or creamy alfredo dish pairs wonderfully with the rich garlic butter sauce.

1. Caesar Salad

• Crisp Romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing and croutons makes a refreshing side.

1. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

• Use bread to soak up every drop of the savory garlic butter sauce.

1. Quinoa or Couscous

• These healthy grains offer a light, fluffy texture that complements the chicken bites.

1. Lemon Wedges

• Serve lemon wedges on the side for an optional zesty finish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & Recipe Perfection Tips

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your chicken bites turn out perfect every time:

• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many pieces at once lowers the pan’s temperature, preventing a golden crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Undercooking or overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping fresh herbs: Parsley adds essential flavor and color; don’t omit it.
• Using cold chicken: Allow chicken to come to room temperature before cooking for even results.

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Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

• Marinate for Extra Flavor
• Toss the chicken in the spice mix and let it marinate for 15–30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
• Deglaze the Pan
• After cooking, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the skillet and create a more robust sauce.
• Add Parmesan Cheese
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for a savory touch.
• Make it Spicy
• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a hint of heat.
• Keto-Friendly Adjustment
• Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or skip the coating entirely for a keto version.

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Side Dish Recommendations

These sides work exceptionally well to create a complete meal:

1. Garlic Butter Rice
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
3. Steamed Broccoli
4. Lemon Herb Couscous
5. Pasta Primavera
6. Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
7. Buttery Dinner Rolls
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

These thoughtful combinations ensure your garlic butter chicken bites shine as part of a balanced and flavorful meal.

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Recipe Tips and Variations

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Keep the Chicken Juicy: Avoid overcooking by using a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a bold and vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices—this is where the flavor comes alive.
• Finish with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty balance to the richness of the garlic butter.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for heat lovers.
• Herb Substitutes: Swap parsley for fresh basil, thyme, or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the chicken before serving for extra richness.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or omit it for a low-carb option.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken bites in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes to restore the crispy texture.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, though the texture may be softer.
• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken bites on a baking sheet, and heat for 8–10 minutes.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take longer to cook.

2. What can I use instead of parsley?

Fresh cilantro, basil, or chives are excellent substitutes for parsley.

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.

4. Can I freeze the cooked chicken bites?

Absolutely! Let the chicken cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

5. What should I do if my chicken isn’t browning?

Ensure the skillet is preheated and avoid overcrowding the pan. Too much chicken at once reduces the temperature, preventing browning.

6. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can coat the chicken with the seasoning mix a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Cook just before serving for the best results.

7. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Add garlic to the skillet after the chicken is nearly cooked, and reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning.

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Conclusion

These garlic butter chicken bites are the perfect quick and versatile dish for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The tender chicken, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Serve them with your favorite sides or enjoy as a stand-alone appetizer. Customize the flavors with herbs, spices, or a touch of lemon to suit your taste. With minimal prep, a short cook time, and maximum flavor, this recipe is bound to impress.