15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: The Perfect One-Pan Meal
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests? Look no further than these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.
These bite-sized chicken morsels are seasoned to perfection, seared until golden, and bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce.
The best part? This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 20 oz (1 ¼ 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
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel and cutting them into 1-inch pieces.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until all the pieces are well coated with the flour and herbs.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Cook the Chicken: Let the chicken cook without moving for about 3 minutes. Flip the pieces over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add Flavor: Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Cook for one more minute until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot, either alone or with your choice of sides such as rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 289kcal Carbohydrates: 4g Protein: 32g Fat: 16g Saturated Fat: 6g Cholesterol: 122mg Sodium: 357mg Potassium: 567mg Fiber: 1g Vitamin A: 9IU Vitamin C: 1mg Calcium: 14mg Iron: 2mg
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- How to Know When the Chicken is Cooked: The chicken pieces should be golden brown on the outside and not pink on the inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Adding More Flavor: To enhance the flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking, double the amount of parsley, or sprinkle red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Storing Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use ½ tsp of garlic powder as a substitute.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Just make sure to remove all fat and remember that they take a bit longer to cook than chicken breasts, so add a minute to the searing time.
Can I Make This Without Flour?
Flour is used to create a light crust and thicken the sauce slightly, but you can skip it if you’re avoiding gluten.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Are Some Quick Side Dish Recommendations?
This entree pairs well with lemon couscous, freshly cooked rice, or steamed vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli. To make lemon couscous, boil chicken broth with lemon juice, add the couscous, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes and then fluff it with a fork.
How Do I Prevent the Chicken From Sticking to the Pan?
First, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the oil and butter. Then, wait until the oil and butter are hot and coat the pan well before placing the chicken on it. Do not move it for 3 minutes. This forms a crust and prevents sticking.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re serving it as an entree or an appetizer, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and guests. Enjoy!
