Welcome to our delicious journey into the world of quick and easy recipes! If you’re a fan of one-pan meals that pack a punch in both flavor and convenience, then you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe—a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without the hassle of complex cooking. These juicy chicken bites are bursting with garlic butter goodness and are sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Introduction
The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe combines simplicity and rich flavors in one easy-to-follow dish. Inspired by the classic flavors of American comfort food, these succulent chicken bites are seasoned with a blend of herbs and cooked to perfection in a buttery garlic sauce. This quick dish is ideal for anyone craving a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, making it an excellent option for dinner or a casual gathering. If you’ve been searching for a tasty chicken recipe, this one is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delectable chicken bites:
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Optional Additions or Substitutions
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Use gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions.
- Swap parsley for cilantro for a fresh twist on flavor.
How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites – Step by Step
Step1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Drying the chicken helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Step2: Season the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Sprinkle flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper on top. Toss until all the pieces are well coated with the flour and herbs.
Step3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once the oil is hot and the butter melts, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust.
Step4: Cook Until Golden
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. This helps develop a golden-brown crust. Then, flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step5: Add Garlic and Butter
- Add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic and parsley. Stir for about 1 minute until the chicken is fully cooked and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs.
Step6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve immediately. Pair with a light salad, over rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Use a hot skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan: Cooking the chicken in a single layer ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
- Fresh garlic is key: While jarred garlic is convenient, fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Cooking Tips
- Preheat your skillet to the right temperature—using a medium-high heat prevents the chicken from drying out while achieving a golden exterior.
- Control the garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Add it during the last minute of cooking to prevent bitterness.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan: A cast-iron skillet works best for even heat distribution and achieving a golden-brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these delicious chicken bites with:
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Freshly baked bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
For a light, refreshing option, serve over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only tasty but also balanced in terms of nutrition:
- Calories: 289 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 116mg
- Sodium: 386mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each serving provides approximately:
- 289 kcal
- 15g fat
- 34g protein
- 5g carbs
- 116mg cholesterol
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out, or microwave with a damp paper towel covering to retain moisture.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay extra juicy.
Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter.
Q3: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Add the garlic during the last minute of cooking to prevent burning and bitterness.
Q4: What can I serve with garlic butter chicken bites?
Serve with a side of steamed rice, pasta, or crusty bread to complement the rich flavors.
Related Recipes
Here are some related recipes that you might enjoy:
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us in making these 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites! With its quick prep time and fantastic flavors, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple yet delicious meals. If you tried this dish, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Feel free to share your own variations and pairings—let’s keep the creativity going in the kitchen!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe – Easy 15-Minute One-Pan Meal
Description
Welcome to our delicious journey into the world of quick and easy recipes! If you’re a fan of one-pan meals that pack a punch in both flavor and convenience, then you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe—a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without the hassle of complex cooking. These juicy chicken bites are bursting with garlic butter goodness and are sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Optional Additions or Substitutions
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Use gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions.
- Swap parsley for cilantro for a fresh twist on flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Drying the chicken helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Sprinkle flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper on top. Toss until all the pieces are well coated with the flour and herbs.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once the oil is hot and the butter melts, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. This helps develop a golden-brown crust. Then, flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Butter
- Add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic and parsley. Stir for about 1 minute until the chicken is fully cooked and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve immediately. Pair with a light salad, over rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use a hot skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan: Cooking the chicken in a single layer ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
- Fresh garlic is key: While jarred garlic is convenient, fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
