Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe for Flavor Lovers

My weeknight dinner game completely changed when I discovered these mouthwatering garlic butter chicken bites that pack serious flavor into every single morsel.

Crispy edges and tender centers create a magical combination most home cooks dream about.

Seasoned with simple ingredients, each bite delivers incredible taste without complicated preparation techniques.

Quick cooking methods mean you can have this delectable dish ready in less than thirty minutes.

Juicy chicken pieces coated in rich, herby butter make even picky eaters swoon with delight.

Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs elevate this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken Bites So Good

  • Whip Up Quickly: Prepare a delicious meal in mere minutes with these succulent chicken bites that require minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients.
  • Flavor Explosion: Packed with aromatic herbs like basil, paprika, and oregano, these chicken bites deliver a rich, mouth-watering taste profile that will delight your taste buds.
  • Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or a satisfying protein-packed dish that pairs wonderfully with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables.
  • One-Pan Dish: Utilizing a single cast iron skillet, this recipe minimizes kitchen cleanup while ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor development through simple, straightforward techniques.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Juicy and tender white meat perfect for quick meals.
Coating Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Light and fine powder for creating a crispy exterior.
  • Basil, Paprika, Oregano: Aromatic herbs that add delicious flavor.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings to enhance taste.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Rich and smooth fats for cooking and adding richness.
  • Garlic: Pungent and flavorful ingredient that brings depth.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb for garnish and fresh flavor.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Pieces

Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.

Slice chicken into 1-inch bite-sized chunks for easy eating and quick cooking.

Step 2: Season Chicken

Gather seasonings:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Dried basil
  • Paprika
  • Oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Sprinkle seasonings over chicken pieces in a mixing bowl.

Gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the herbed flour mixture.

Step 3: Sizzle in Skillet

Select a large cast iron skillet.

Heat over medium-high temperature.

Add olive oil and butter, allowing them to meld and create a flavorful cooking surface.

Once oil shimmers and butter melts, carefully place seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer.

Step 4: First Side Cooking

Let chicken sit undisturbed for approximately 3 minutes.

This creates a golden-brown crust and seals in delicious flavors.

Do not move or disturb chicken during this time.

Step 5: Flip and Continue Cooking

Turn chicken pieces to opposite side.

Cook for an additional 2 minutes until they develop a beautiful, crispy exterior.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Add remaining butter, freshly minced garlic, and chopped parsley.

Stir and cook for one final minute to ensure chicken is completely cooked and herbs are fragrant.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Tips to Make Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Pat chicken breasts thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior during cooking.
  • Toss chicken pieces gently in seasoned flour, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor and creating a delicate, crispy crust.
  • Use a cast iron skillet for consistent heat distribution and develop a beautiful sear by avoiding frequent stirring during initial cooking.
  • Add minced garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and preserve its delicate, aromatic flavor.
  • Cook chicken over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to guarantee evenly cooked, juicy chicken bites with a golden-brown finish.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Bites

  • Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled chicken bites to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring they're completely sealed to prevent freezer burn.
  • Warm chicken bites in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet or microwave. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to revive the original flavors and add a burst of freshness.

Best Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Enhance Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Perfect Pairings:
  • Crisp White Wine Companion: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the herb-infused chicken's delicate flavors and cut through the richness of garlic butter.
  • Zesty Mediterranean Salad Sidekick: Prepare a light Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil dressing to balance the chicken's savory profile and add refreshing contrast.
  • Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Partner: Whip up smooth, buttery mashed potatoes with roasted garlic to echo the dish's garlicky notes and provide a comforting starchy base.
  • Roasted Vegetable Harmony: Toss mixed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus with herbs and olive oil, then roast until slightly charred for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bite Variants

  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a keto-friendly coating that keeps the chicken crispy and low-carb.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining the recipe's original texture.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Swap dried herbs with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to create a more vibrant and aromatic flavor profile for the chicken bites.
  • Spicy Kick Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix to introduce a bold, spicy element that complements the garlic butter sauce.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly and will give a slightly more tender and juicy result. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking time if needed.

  • Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?

While a cast iron skillet provides excellent heat distribution and creates a nice golden crust, you can use any heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan. The key is to have an even heating surface.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the largest piece to ensure there’s no pink in the center and the juices run clear.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. The coating will still provide a delicious crispy exterior for the chicken bites.

Print
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic butter chicken bites deliver quick culinary magic from skillet to plate. Crispy edges, buttery richness, and bold garlic flavor will make you crave this simple yet irresistible protein-packed meal that comes together in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 20 ounces (1.25 pounds) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, freshly chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts completely dry using clean kitchen towels, ensuring moisture-free surface for optimal seasoning adherence.
  2. Slice chicken into uniform bite-sized cubes, maintaining consistent one-inch dimensions for even cooking.
  3. Transfer chicken pieces into a spacious mixing vessel, generously coat with flour mixture combining basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently tumble contents until each morsel is thoroughly encrusted with herbed flour.
  4. Position cast iron skillet over medium-high thermal setting, introduce olive oil and initial butter portion. Wait until fat shimmers and butter liquefies completely.
  5. Carefully distribute chicken pieces across skillet, creating single-layer arrangement without overcrowding. Allow uninterrupted searing for approximately three minutes, developing golden caramelized exterior.
  6. Execute precise turning of chicken fragments, revealing crisp bronzed surfaces. Continue cooking additional two minutes, promoting interior tenderness.
  7. Incorporate remaining butter, introduce finely chopped garlic, and sprinkle fresh parsley throughout skillet. Gently maneuver ingredients, ensuring chicken reaches perfect doneness and garlic releases aromatic essence.
  8. Remove immediately from heat, transferring succulent chicken bites onto serving platter, preserving their crisp texture and robust flavor profile.

Notes

  • Pat chicken pieces completely dry to ensure a crispy, golden exterior when searing.
  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and better browning throughout the meat.
  • Avoid overcrowding the skillet to prevent steaming instead of achieving a beautiful golden crust.
  • Experiment with alternative herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with almond flour or cornstarch.
  • Keep chicken pieces uniform in size to guarantee consistent cooking time and texture.
  • Let chicken rest for a minute after cooking to retain maximum juiciness and prevent dryness.
  • Create a low-carb option by omitting flour and using just herbs and spices for coating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Marcus Hale

Marcus Hale

Founder & Recipe Storyteller

Expertise

  • Demystifying knife work, sauce emulsification, and pastry basics.
  • Curating seasonal guides that adapt global recipes to local, in-season produce.
  • Crafting blog posts, videos, and social media tips.

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on global cuisine training emphasizes sustainable cooking and recipe development under accredited chefs.

Marcus grew up surrounded by maple trees, farm stands, and the smell of Sunday stew simmering on the stove. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from the HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he knew he didn’t want to work in fancy kitchens, he wanted to cook for real people.

At Whip Up Cook Up, Marcus is the guy turning memories into meals. His recipes are fast, full of flavor, and built for home cooks who want big taste without the drama.

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