Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe – Recipes From Chef

I have a deep love for cooking. There’s something magical about creating dishes that not only fill bellies but also warm hearts. Today, I’m sharing a treat that always makes my family gather around the kitchen.

 The Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful dish bursting with flavor. They’re quick to whip up, require minimal ingredients, and taste like heaven. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together, shall we?

Garlic butter chicken bites are tender, juicy pieces of chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish marries simple ingredients with robust flavors, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a delightful appetizer. 

The chicken is coated in a garlic butter mixture that not only enhances its natural flavors but also creates a rich, savory experience. Over the years, I've made various versions, but this one truly stands out.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

There's no shortage of reasons to fall for these chicken bites. First, they’re incredibly delicious. The blend of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs creates a sauce that deserves to be bottled up. Second, they’re quick to make. On a busy weeknight, these bites can be ready in under 30 minutes. This is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a full schedule.

Moreover, they are kid-friendly. With their bite-sized pieces, even picky eaters can enjoy them. They make for an excellent dish at gatherings or even cozy family dinners. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to your taste preferences.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this recipe:

• 1 1/4 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks
• 3 Tbsp unsalted European-style butter, divided
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly minced garlic (about 4 large cloves)
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 tsp rustic Italian herb blend
• 2 Tbsp unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 Tbsp finely snipped flat-leaf parsley

Each ingredient plays a role in elevating the final result. The chicken is the star, and garlic, butter, and herbs are its supporting cast, creating a flavorful ensemble that you won’t forget.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breast fillets into bite-sized pieces. The chunks should be about 1 1/4 inches for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel; this will help the chicken sear better. 

Season the pieces with salt, pepper, and the rustic Italian herb blend. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor!

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, introduce half of the butter into the pan. Let it melt and combine with the oil. The aroma of the butter will get your kitchen smelling incredible already.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

After the butter has melted, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they become golden brown. The beauty of this step lies in watching the chicken transform from pale to a beautiful golden hue.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet temporarily. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Careful, though; burnt garlic loses its charm!

Now is the time to sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously to create a roux with the butter and garlic. Allow it to cook for about a minute to eliminate that raw flour taste.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Slowly pour in a bit of water or chicken broth, stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce. You want a consistency that nicely coats the back of a spoon. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and lemon zest at this point.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it to coat with the rich garlic butter sauce. Allow everything to simmer for another two minutes. This step allows the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the finely snipped flat-leaf parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now, your garlic butter chicken bites are ready to be devoured!

Tips & Tricks

A good recipe needs good tips. Here are my favorite five to help make your garlic butter chicken bites a success:

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic has a flavor profile that dried garlic simply can’t match. It’s worth the effort!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid crowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, resulting in less flavor.
• Let the Butter Brown: Don’t rush melting the butter. Allow it to brown slightly for a nutty flavor that will elevate your dish.
• Adjust Heat Wisely: Pay attention to the heat. Too high, and the garlic burns. Too low, and your chicken won't sear correctly.
• Make It Saucy: If you love a saucier dish, feel free to add more chicken broth. You’ll have more delicious sauce to soak up.

Nutrition Information

For those tracking their food intake, here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

This nutritious choice provides a great source of protein and healthy fats.

Can I Store Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

Absolutely! If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave before serving again. The flavors will still be delightful!

What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

This dish is fantastic on its own, but for a complete meal, consider pairing it with:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.
• Rice or Grain: Think fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up that glorious sauce.
• Pasta: Tossing these bites on top of pasta can turn it into a hearty dinner.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad balances the richness well.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping in the garlic butter sauce.

The possibilities are endless!

Variations

Let’s spice things up! Here are five exciting variations to consider:

• Add Cheese: For a creamy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken just before serving. It adds a delightful tang.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites: Boost the zestiness by adding more lemon juice and zest. This brightens up the flavors even more.
• Spicy Garlic Chicken Bites: If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
• Asian Twist: Substitute the herbs with soy sauce and sesame oil. Add green onions and serve over rice for an Asian-inspired flair.
• Herb Variations: Switch up the fresh herbs! Try thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile. Each herb will give a unique taste experience.

Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are more than just a dish; they’re an experience filled with love, flavor, and comfort. This recipe stands out with its simplicity and adaptability. Whipping it up has become a cherished tradition in my home, and I hope it finds a special place in yours too.

So gather your loved ones, fire up that skillet, and enjoy a delightful feast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Until next time, happy cooking!

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