Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
If you're searching for a dish that is both incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. These delightful morsels are a great way to elevate a weeknight dinner, providing a burst of flavor without taking up hours of your time. In just minutes, you can create a meal that is sure to impress your family or guests.
What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Irresistible?
The secret lies in their succulent texture and the rich, buttery, garlic-infused sauce that envelops each bite. Don't you love the smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen? It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, enticing everyone to gather around the table. The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh herbs like parsley gives these chicken bites a taste that's reminiscent of your favorite Italian restaurant—without the hefty price tag!
For those looking to make something special with minimal effort, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, you can easily customize it by serving with sides like lemon couscous or sautéed vegetables. So, whether you're dining solo or feeding a crowd, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a versatile choice for any occasion!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
When ready to whip up some delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, having the right ingredients on hand is key to achieving that unbeatable flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 ¼-inch pieces for that perfect bite-sized portion. For the freshest chicken, consider checking out your local butcher or supermarket.
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2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This will help create a crispy coating on the chicken, contributing to the overall texture.
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1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a savory touch. You can even make your own if you have dried basil, oregano, and rosemary on hand.
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors. Freshly ground pepper can really elevate your dish!
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1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds richness and helps sauté the chicken perfectly.
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3 tablespoon unsalted butter: Divided, this will lend a creamy, dreamy note to the dish.
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1 ½ tablespoon minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves): The star of the show! Fresh garlic gives off a wonderful aroma and flavor.
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2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If you're feeling adventurous, try using fresh herbs like thyme or basil as alternatives.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting Garlic Butter Chicken Bites that are sure to impress at any gathering or weeknight dinner. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Creating Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a delightful culinary adventure that promises incredible flavor with every bite. Let’s walk through the preparation process step-by-step to make sure your experience in the kitchen is as enjoyable as the dish itself!
Gather and prepare ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients to keep your cooking experience smooth and organized. You will need:
- 1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ¼-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
- 1 ½ tablespoon minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Make sure to have your measuring cups and spoons handy—it'll save time!
Season the chicken
Take the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels; this helps to ensure a perfect sear. Next, sprinkle the flour, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the chicken. Feel free to toss the chicken until every piece is coated well—the flour helps create a delicious crust when cooked.
Heat the skillet
Now, it's time to turn up the heat! Preheat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted and slightly foamed, you're ready to add the chicken. Make sure to tilt the pan to coat it evenly with the oil and butter, creating a non-stick surface for your chicken bites.
Cook the chicken bits
Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer in your skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Leave some space between the pieces to encourage even browning—this is key! Cook for about 3 minutes on one side until it’s beautifully golden, then flip to the other side. Cook for another 2 minutes or until the chicken is mostly cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F).
Add butter, garlic, and parsley
This is where the magic begins! Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, along with your minced garlic and chopped parsley to the pan. Cook for a minute more, allowing the chicken to soak in the rich flavors of garlic and butter. The aroma will be irresistible! Remember to check the chicken to ensure it's cooked through before serving immediately—hot and fresh is always best!
Now you're ready to serve your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, perhaps alongside some lemon couscous or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the compliments that follow!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Garlic Butter Shrimp Bites
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll adore swapping chicken for shrimp in this recipe. Simply replace the chicken bites with a pound of large, deveined shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink and slightly opaque, soaking up that rich garlic butter flavor. The result is a delightful and quick dish that pairs fabulously with rice or pasta. For an extra zest, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving.
Vegan Garlic Butter Bites
For a plant-based twist, try using hearty mushrooms or tofu in place of chicken. You can sauté either option with the same delicious garlic butter and seasonings. Opt for a vegan butter alternative, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that even non-vegans will crave. Serve with a fresh salad or over quinoa for a nutritious meal that satisfies.
These variations not only keep things exciting in the kitchen but also cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Creating delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is simple with a few handy tips! First, make sure your chicken is patted dry for that perfect sear. This helps in achieving a delightful golden-brown crust. While seasoning, feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste—don’t hold back on experimenting with those flavors!
For a fresh twist, try using fresh parsley or even doubling the amount for a more herbaceous flavor. Want a citrusy zing? A squeeze of lemon right before serving elevates the dish beautifully. Pair your bites with sautéed veggies or zesty lemon couscous for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
When it comes to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, the serving options are endless and can turn this dish into a delightful feast! Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal experience:
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Lemon Couscous: This zesty side pairs perfectly with your chicken bites. Simply cook couscous in chicken broth, add lemon for brightness, and let it soak up those delicious flavors.
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Vegetable Medley: Sautéed or steamed vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli not only complement the chicken but also add vibrant color to your plate.
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Savory Salads: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Feeling extra fancy? You can plate your bites over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside roasted potatoes for a hearty option. Whatever you choose, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites will shine!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Preparation Time
Getting started on your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is quick and easy, with a preparation time of just 10 minutes. It'll give you just enough time to gather your ingredients and get ready for some kitchen magic.
Cooking Time
The cooking process takes about 10-12 minutes, allowing the chicken pieces to brown beautifully while soaking up all that rich garlic butter flavor.
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend around 20-22 minutes creating this delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends – who doesn’t love quick and tasty recipes? If you want to elevate the flavors even more, consider pairing it with a light side, like a fresh salad or lemon couscous for a complete meal experience!
Need more inspiration? Check out Cooking Classy's garlic butter chicken recipe for additional tips on perfecting your dish.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
When you indulge in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, you savor a delicious treat with a solid nutritional profile. Let's break it down:
Calories
A single serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a balanced option for dinner or a flavorful snack.
Protein
With about 30 grams of protein per serving, these chicken bites not only satisfy your cravings but also support muscle health and keep you feeling full.
Sodium
Keep in mind that each serving packs around 600 mg of sodium, so be mindful if you're watching your salt intake. Enjoy this dish while pairing it with low-sodium sides for a wholesome meal.
For more insights on dietary guidelines and understanding nutrient values, check out resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Happy cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
How do I make chicken bites extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, consider coating the chicken pieces in a thin layer of flour or fine breadcrumbs before cooking. This will create a delightful crunch. Make sure your skillet is preheated adequately, and don’t overcrowd the pan; leaving space lets the chicken brown rather than steam. If you're feeling adventurous, try frying them for a short burst in hot oil before finishing with butter for that perfect golden texture!
Can I make garlic butter chicken bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the garlic and seasonings up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook them in the skillet as per the recipe. Alternatively, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead, then just toss everything together when you're ready for a quick meal.
What sides go well with garlic butter chicken bites?
Pair your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with light sides like lemon couscous or sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or broccoli, to create a refreshing balance. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the dish beautifully. Looking for more side ideas? Check out resources like EatingWell for inspiration!
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
In summary, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites offer a deliciously simple way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they are perfect for both busy professionals and those looking to impress at a gathering. So go ahead, whip up this dish and enjoy!
For more easy recipes, check out Cooking Classy for inspiration!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Equipment
- 12-inch non-stick skillet
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ¼-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
- 1 ½ tablespoon minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley *For extra herb flavor double up on the parsley.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Preheat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dab chicken on all sides dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle flour, Italian seasoning, and desired amount of salt and pepper over chicken. Toss well to evenly coat.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to skillet; the butter should melt quickly.
- Add chicken in an even layer, leaving some space between pieces to allow for browning.
- Let cook until nicely golden brown on the bottom, about 3 minutes, then flip to the opposite side and cook for 2 minutes longer, or until nearly cooked through.
- Add remaining 2 tablespoon butter in small pieces, along with garlic and parsley. Cook 1 minute longer until chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve right away.
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