Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick, flavorful, and juicy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With tender chicken pieces seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Serve them over rice, pasta, or alongside veggies for a complete meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
salt
black pepper
paprika
olive oil
unsalted butter
garlic (minced)
fresh parsley (chopped)
optional: red pepper flakes or lemon juice for extra flavor

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice sear.

Flip the chicken and continue cooking until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes total.

Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.

Toss the chicken in the garlic butter as it melts, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and glossy.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken breast for thighs for a juicier texture.
Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
Sprinkle grated parmesan over the chicken before serving.
Stir in cooked mushrooms or spinach for added veggies.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
To freeze, let the chicken cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but red pepper flakes can add a mild kick if desired.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

They’re great with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and marinate the chicken in advance and cook when ready.

What’s the best pan to use?

A heavy skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best for a good sear.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

What’s the best way to get crispy edges?

Make sure the pan is hot and don’t overcrowd—cook in a single layer.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

Add it after the chicken is mostly cooked and reduce heat when stirring it in.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work great—just sauté them separately or with the chicken.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a simple yet irresistible dish that brings bold flavor to the table in just minutes. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to that’s always satisfying and adaptable.

Print