Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites have a golden, slightly crispy exterior, infused with rich garlic butter flavor. They are tender and juicy and cook in just a few minutes. Highly customizable to the flavor and heat level, it’s the perfect quick weeknight meal.
This recipe is perfect for families because it’s quick and easy to make, with simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The flavorful garlic butter sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike and the bite-sized pieces make it quick and easy to make.
It’s versatile too; serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken nuggets, providing a wholesome option for family dinners.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Simple yet flavorful ingredients come together for these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: tender chicken, garlic, butter, herbs, and species.
- Chicken Boneless: Provides the main protein component of the dish, creating the foundation for a filling and satisfying meal.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and balances the other ingredients in the dish.
- Olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken and prevent sticking to the pan during cooking, while also adding a subtle depth of flavor.
- Butter (unsalted): Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce, contributing richness and a creamy texture to the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a strong, aromatic garlic flavor, which pairs perfectly with the butter and chicken.
- Steak Seasoning: Adds complexity and depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Dried pepper flakes (optional): Provides a hint of heat and adds a subtle kick to the dish, complementing the other flavors.
- Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, while also enhancing the presentation.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
In just a few easy steps, you can whip up these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Follow these simple steps to create this family-friendly dish!
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through with no pink in the center.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the butter, minced garlic, steak seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional). Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce until evenly coated.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Why this Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The bite-sized pieces make it easy to enjoy, and its versatility makes it a hit with families looking for a quick and delicious meal.
Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a tangy or cheesy twist.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a hearty meal.
Family-Friendly Side Dishes
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and caramelized.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit with kids and adults alike. Add some garlic or cheese for extra flavor.
- Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken bites over fluffy steamed rice for a simple and satisfying meal.
- Garlic Bread: Toast slices of garlic bread for a delicious and comforting side.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a kid-friendly favorite that complements the garlic butter chicken bites well.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken bites and garnish with lemon zest for a bright and citrusy twist.
- Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken bites during the final minutes of cooking for a cheesy, savory finish.
- Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Drizzle honey over the chicken bites along with the garlic butter sauce for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
- Asian-Inspired Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the garlic butter sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- BBQ Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Season the chicken with your favorite barbecue dry rub or sauce before tossing them in the garlic butter sauce for a smoky and tangy flavor.
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
Storing:
- Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
- To freeze, place the cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper [paid link]. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- To reheat, you can either microwave the chicken bites until heated through or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- For best results, add a little extra butter or olive oil to prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking time.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt content it will add to the dish. Adjust the amount of salt accordingly to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Can I omit the garlic?
Yes. While garlic adds a lot of flavor to this dish, you can omit it if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions. Consider adding other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor instead.
Drink Pairings
Remember, personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!
Family-Friendly Drink Pairings:
- Homemade Lemonade: Refreshing and citrusy, homemade lemonade complements the savory flavors of the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.
- Iced Tea: A classic beverage choice, iced tea provides a cool and crisp accompaniment to the meal.
- Sparkling Water with a Splash of Fruit Juice: Light and bubbly, sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory chicken bites.
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay: The buttery notes of Chardonnay complement the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Pinot Noir: With its lighter body and fruity flavors, Pinot Noir pairs well with the chicken bites without overpowering them.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc enhances the garlic and herb flavors in the dish.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Classic Mojito: The minty freshness of a classic mojito provides a bright contrast to the savory chicken bites.
- Moscow Mule: The zesty ginger beer in a Moscow Mule adds a spicy kick that pairs nicely with the garlic and pepper flavors.
- Gin and Tonic: The botanical notes of gin complement the herbal seasoning in the chicken bites, while the effervescence of tonic water refreshes the palate.
Beer Pairings:
- Wheat Beer: The light and refreshing qualities of a wheat beer, such as a Hefeweizen, complement the garlic and herb flavors in the dish.
- Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Pilsner: Crisp and clean, a pilsner cleanses the palate between bites of the savory chicken dish.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons Butter I use unsalted
- 3 cloves Garlic , minced (or 1 Tbsp of jarred minced garlic)
- 1 tsp Steak Seasoning or favorite seasoning blend I use Kinder's brand Buttery Steakhouse Seasoning. You could also use herbs de Provence or your favorite blend.
- 1/4 tsp Dried pepper flakes optional, more or less to taste
Optional Garnish
- 2 tsp Parsley freshly minced (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through with no pink in the center.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the butter, minced garlic, steak seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional). Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce until evenly coated.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
Storing:- Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, place the cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper [paid link]. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, you can either microwave the chicken bites until heated through or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- For best results, add a little extra butter or olive oil to prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.