15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is a delightful solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something quick yet flavorful. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these tender chicken bites are enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates their taste. You can serve them as an entrée with your favorite sides or present them as mouthwatering appetizers at gatherings.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For Cooking
• For Flavor
• For Garnish
• How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• As a Main Course
• As an Appetizer
• With Fresh Salads
• How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen chicken?
• How do I make this dish healthier?
• What sides go well with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
• Can I customize the spices?
• How can I store leftovers?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup time means more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
• Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce brings a savory richness that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these bites as a main dish, appetizer, or even a topping on salads and pasta.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to both toddlers and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this recipe even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to sear the chicken properly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping chicken and other ingredients.

Ingredients

To make these delicious 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 20 oz (1¼ 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

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

For Flavor

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
3. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to achieve a golden crust. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter Flavor

1. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley to the skillet.
2. Cook for 1 minute while stirring occasionally until the garlic is fragrant and ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

Step 4: Serve

Serve hot as a main dish with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, or enjoy as an appetizer. Enjoy!

How to Serve 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a dish for entertaining guests, these chicken bites will impress everyone.

As a Main Course

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• With Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. A light drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors.
• In Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with chicken bites, fresh salsa, and avocado for a fun twist.

As an Appetizer

• Skewered: Thread the chicken bites on skewers and serve with toothpicks for easy eating.
• With Dipping Sauce: Pair with ranch or garlic aioli for extra flavor that guests will love.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Include these bites alongside cheeses and olives for an elegant appetizer spread.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: Top mixed greens with chicken bites, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Add to romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a satisfying twist on the classic.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To make your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites even better, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is packed with flavor and cooked perfectly.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season your chicken generously. It enhances the overall taste.
• Hot Skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This helps create that golden crust quickly.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced options.
• Rest After Cooking: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
• Garnish Wisely: Adding fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish’s flavors.
• Experiment with Spice: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes during cooking to kick things up a notch.

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Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Pairing sides with your chicken bites can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement the rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add freshness and color to your plate.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the dish’s richness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a healthy contrast.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings texture and tanginess, making it a great side option.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when you’re in a hurry. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while preparing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken dry before seasoning can lead to soggy bites. Always dry your chicken with a paper towel for better browning.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once prevents proper cooking and browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season the flour mixture well can result in bland chicken. Make sure to use enough spices to enhance the flavor.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C).
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old garlic or herbs can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Allow chicken bites to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter or oil, and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.

How do I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute olive oil with cooking spray and use less butter. Adding more vegetables is another great way to boost nutrition.

What sides go well with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Can I customize the spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference. Add cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for freshness.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Try it out today!