15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is a delightful and quick option for any occasion. With tender chicken bites enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor make it a standout choice for both family dinners and festive gatherings.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For Cooking
• For Flavoring
• For Garnish
• How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• As a Main Dish
• As an Appetizer
• With Fresh Salads
• How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen chicken?
• How can I make these bites spicier?
• What side dishes pair well with these garlic butter chicken bites?
• Can I customize the herbs used?
• How do I store leftovers?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute meals.
• Flavor-Packed: Garlic and butter create an irresistible sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an entrée with sides or as a tasty appetizer.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required thanks to cooking everything in one skillet.
• Kid-Friendly: Tender chicken bites that even the pickiest eaters will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. This will help streamline your cooking experience and ensure you have everything you need at hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
• Cutting board: Protects surfaces while allowing you to chop ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy cutting of chicken into bite-sized pieces for better cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for coating the chicken evenly with flour and spices.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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

For Flavoring

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the skillet. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to achieve a golden crust. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor

Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

Step 4: Serve

Serve hot as a main dish with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad or as an appetizer. Enjoy!

How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This quick and delicious dish can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a simple weeknight meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites experience.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with rice: Serve the chicken bites over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Enjoy with pasta: Toss the chicken bites with your favorite pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a hearty meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve on skewers: Thread the chicken bites onto skewers for easy handling at parties or gatherings.
• Accompany with dipping sauces: Offer marinara or ranch dressing as tasty dips alongside the chicken bites.

With Fresh Salads

• Add to salads: Mix the chicken bites into a fresh garden salad for added protein and flavor.
• Create a Caesar salad: Top romaine lettuce with chicken bites and Caesar dressing for a delicious twist.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To make your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites even more delicious, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Let it rest: Allow the cooked chicken to sit for a couple of minutes before serving; this helps retain its juices.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Complement your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with delicious side dishes that balance flavors and textures. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A perfect pairing that complements the buttery sauce while providing extra crunch.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overpowering the meal.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors beautifully while adding texture.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty accompaniment to this dish.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious side that’s also filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken dry can prevent it from browning properly. Always dry your chicken before seasoning.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once can steam them instead of searing. Cook in batches for optimal results.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
• Not Using Fresh Garlic: Substituting garlic powder instead of fresh garlic can diminish flavor. Always use minced garlic for that rich taste.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Each brand of salt and butter varies in flavor. Taste your dish and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken bites to cool before sealing.

Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.
• Label your containers with the date for reference.

Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.

Can I use frozen chicken?

You can use frozen chicken; however, ensure you thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How can I make these bites spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking to enhance the heat level.

What side dishes pair well with these garlic butter chicken bites?

They pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the herbs used?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only quick but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with various sides. Give this dish a try, and enjoy its delicious versatility!

---