15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken bites enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is both flavorful and quick to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as a main course with sides or as a delightful appetizer for a crowd, this recipe has you covered.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Bites
• For Cooking
• 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 Course
• As an Appetizer
• 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?
• What sides pair well with garlic butter chicken bites?
• How do I make this recipe healthier?
• Can I customize the seasoning?
• Are there alternatives to garlic?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic schedules.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that elevates simple chicken bites to gourmet status.
• Versatile: Serve these bites as an entrée with rice or pasta, or enjoy them as a standalone appetizer at your next gathering.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tender chicken bites, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since this recipe utilizes just one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools handy is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for even cooking and achieving that golden crust on the chicken.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing your chicken, making the process quicker and safer.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing the chicken with flour and seasonings, ensuring even coating.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. 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 all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet.

Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted:
1. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
2. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until they achieve a golden crust.
3. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are lightly browned.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet.

Cook for about 1 minute while stirring occasionally until:
– The garlic becomes fragrant.
– 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 or pasta or enjoy as an appetizer. Enjoy your flavorful 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites!

How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Serving 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can elevate your dining experience. This versatile dish is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

As a Main Course

• Pair with rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Accompany with pasta: Toss in your favorite pasta for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.
• Add a fresh salad: A simple green salad balances the richness of the chicken bites and adds a refreshing crunch.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with toothpicks: Present the chicken bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Accompany with dipping sauce: Offer garlic aioli or spicy ranch for guests to dip their bites into.
• Create sliders: Place the chicken bites in small buns for tasty sliders perfect for parties.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To make your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality chicken: Select fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary; this ensures even cooking and browning.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs. Consider using it generously.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
• Experiment with spices: Customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences, adding ingredients like cayenne or cumin.
• Add lemon juice before serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances its flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Pairing your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with complementary side dishes can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly with chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition, enhancing the plate visually and nutritionally.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the tender bites.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf cooked with herbs offers a healthy alternative while complementing the dish’s flavors.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli steamed until just tender adds freshness and fiber to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn served on the cob is a fun addition that brings sweetness and texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Incorrect Chicken Preparation: Not patting the chicken dry can lead to uneven cooking. Always dry the chicken with a paper towel for better browning.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can steam rather than sear them. Cook in batches to achieve a nice golden crust.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland chicken. Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with spices before cooking.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds flavor and brightness. Don’t omit it; it enhances both taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the chicken cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label your container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before preparing the recipe for even cooking.

What sides pair well with garlic butter chicken bites?

These bites go well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute olive oil with a spray or reduce the amount of butter used without compromising much on flavor.

Can I customize the seasoning?

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

Are there alternatives to garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, try using shallots or green onions for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. They work perfectly as a main dish or an appetizer. You can customize them by adding different spices or garnishes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!

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