Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish)); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Indulge in the rich and savory taste of garlic butter chicken bites—a perfect blend of tender chicken and aromatic garlic butter that will delight your taste buds. These bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of garlic butter chicken bites!

Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approx. 4 pieces) contains about 350 calories, 22g protein, 28g fat, and 2g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
Preheat your skillet over medium heat.
Melt the butter in the skillet.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Season chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
Stir the chicken in the garlic butter to coat evenly.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, olive oil can replace butter for a lighter version, and you can use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.

Serving and Pairings

These garlic butter chicken bites pair wonderfully with a side of fresh salad, garlic bread, or a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. These bites can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Not preheating the skillet can lead to uneven cooking.
Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of browning.
Using too high heat may burn the garlic.
Not seasoning the chicken adequately can make it bland.
Skipping the garnish can result in a less appealing presentation.

Helpful Tips

Marinate the chicken for an hour for extra flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked (165°F).
Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How can I make these bites spicier?

To add spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! These garlic butter bites work well with shrimp or tofu as alternatives.

What can I serve these bites with?

They pair nicely with a variety of dips, salads, or as part of a larger appetizer platter.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.

Conclusion

Garlic butter chicken bites are a fantastic and simple dish that packs a flavorful punch. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy these delightful bites as a standalone snack or as part of a delicious meal!