15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
If you need a delicious, protein-packed meal that is ready in minutes, these garlic butter chicken bites are the perfect solution. With a crispy sear, juicy interior, and rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this easy recipe brings bold flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.
- Few Ingredients – Requires only pantry staples.
- Packed with Flavor – A perfect mix of garlic, butter, and herbs.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, pasta, or veggies.
Ingredients You Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the same pan.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
- Simmer for 1 minute to let flavors meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken bites to the pan and toss in the garlic butter sauce.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, coating the chicken evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Best Serving Suggestions
- With Rice – Serve over steamed white rice for a hearty meal.
- With Pasta – Toss with cooked pasta for an effortless dinner.
- With Vegetables – Pair with roasted broccoli or asparagus for a low-carb option.
- As a Wrap – Use in lettuce wraps or tortillas for a handheld meal.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if necessary to get a crispy sear.
- Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level – Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Double the Sauce – If you love extra sauce, double the butter and garlic mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but will need an extra minute or two of cooking time.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Serve it with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a side salad.
What other seasonings can I use?
Try adding smoked paprika, cumin, or Cajun seasoning for a twist.
Final Thoughts
This 15-minute garlic butter chicken bites recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a meal-prep staple, this dish delivers big taste with minimal effort.
