How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a quick yet incredibly satisfying chicken dish, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. This recipe is perfect for home cooks who want something both flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making dinner for family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, these bite-sized chicken pieces drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce are guaranteed to impress.

Not only is this dish a staple for chicken lovers, but it also allows plenty of room for creativity. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Flavor-packed: Every bite is coated with garlic-infused butter and a touch of herbs, making it impossible to resist.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is a perfect weeknight meal.
• Versatile: Pair it with pasta, rice, or even vegetables for a full meal.
• Crowd-pleaser: These bites are loved by kids and adults alike, making them an ideal dish for family dinners or gatherings.

Now, let’s jump into the recipe and make sure you get the best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites possible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Having everything prepped ahead of time will make the cooking process smoother.

Main Ingredients:

• 400g boneless chicken thighs or breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• Salt & black pepper (for seasoning)
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating the chicken)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 20g unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
• 125ml chicken broth (for the sauce)
• Lemon juice (a splash for added zest)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 20g unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon parsley (fresh or dried)
• A pinch of black pepper

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless chicken thighs or breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. Season them well with salt and black pepper. The salt helps to draw out moisture from the chicken, which helps with the browning process later on.

Tip: Using chicken thighs adds extra juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts are a leaner option if you prefer.

Step 2: Coat with Flour

Once seasoned, coat the chicken pieces with all-purpose flour. This step ensures the chicken gets a nice crispy texture when fried.

Why flour? The flour helps create a slight crust, adding texture to each bite and helping the garlic butter sauce cling to the chicken later.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your floured chicken bites. Fry them for about 5-6 minutes, turning halfway through until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can result in steaming rather than frying, which makes the chicken less crispy.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to low and add 20g unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs

Next, pour in 125ml chicken broth. This helps to deglaze the pan, lifting all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in dried oregano, paprika (if using), and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Pro Tip: The chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, making it more flavorful. If you like a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream at this stage.

Step 6: Reintroduce the Chicken

Add the fried chicken bites back into the pan, coating them in the garlic butter sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley and an extra pinch of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy yet tender Garlic Butter Chicken Bites!

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Pasta: Serve the chicken bites over a bed of buttered pasta or garlic spaghetti for a hearty dinner.
• Rice: A simple side of steamed jasmine or basmati rice will soak up all the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Balance out the richness of the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, even small errors can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the pan: As mentioned earlier, this prevents the chicken from browning properly, leaving it soggy.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.
• Skipping the flour coating: The flour helps create a crispy exterior and allows the sauce to cling better to the chicken.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Use room temperature butter: Cold butter can cause the sauce to split, so make sure it’s softened before adding it to the pan.
• Customize the seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or thyme for an extra kick.
• Cook the chicken thoroughly: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Double the sauce: If you’re a sauce lover, double the ingredients for the garlic butter sauce and pour it generously over your chicken and sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even frying and to avoid excess moisture, which could make the chicken soggy.

Can I use butter substitutes?

Yes, you can use margarine or ghee, but keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to preserve the crispy texture.

Health Benefits of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

While Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are undeniably delicious, they also come with several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Garlic Boosts Immunity: Garlic contains allicin, known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Butter in Moderation: While butter adds richness, it’s important to use it in moderation. Opt for unsalted butter to control your sodium intake.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a versatile, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a novice home cook or a seasoned culinary enthusiast, this recipe is both approachable and packed with flavor.

The balance of juicy chicken with the richness of garlic butter and the freshness of parsley creates a mouth-watering combination that will leave you craving more.

Try it out and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear if you prefer it with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

[Nutrition Table]

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	27g
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	540mg
Sugars	0g

Make sure to share your own twist on this recipe in the comments! Happy cooking!