Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, juicy chicken pieces seared to golden perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Quick to make and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Make garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter sauce until coated.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot.
Notes
- Chicken choice: Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well for leaner bites.
- Pairings: Perfect with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- Make it creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream and Parmesan for a creamy garlic butter variation.
- Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.