If you are searching for a quick, flavorful, and utterly addictive dish to satisfy your cravings, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe. These tender chicken pieces are perfectly seared and bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe transforms everyday chicken thighs into bite-sized morsels packed with bold flavor, guaranteed to impress at any dinner table or weeknight meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe shines because of its simplicity, relying on ingredients that are easy to find yet essential in creating that perfect balance of savory, buttery, and garlicky goodness. Each component, from the succulent chicken to the fragrant garlic, plays a key role in delivering an irresistible taste and texture.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they provide a rich flavor and keep the bites moist.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Divided use for both searing and creating that luscious garlic butter sauce.
- 4 to 6 cloves garlic, chopped: The star of the sauce, adding aromatic intensity with every bite.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and fresh, herby brightness to finish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
First things first, trim any excess fat from your chicken thighs for a cleaner bite. Cut the chicken into roughly 1 1/2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Pat each piece dry with paper towels—this helps the chicken get that beautiful, easy-to-brown crust. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on all sides so every bite is seasoned perfectly.
Step 2: Heat the skillet and sear chicken
Turn on your range hood for ventilation because things are about to get aromatic. Heat a sturdy, large (12-inch) stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and wait until it starts to sizzle and brown slightly. This toasty butter is where the magic begins. Place the chicken bites in the skillet in a single layer—no crowding! This helps develop a glorious crust on each piece.
Step 3: Sear the chicken on one side
Let the chicken sear without moving it around. Patience is key here; in about 4 minutes, the chicken will turn opaque roughly two-thirds of the way through and develop a deep, golden crust beneath. This crust adds incredible flavor and texture, so resist the urge to flip too early.
Step 4: Flip and finish cooking
Carefully flip each piece using tongs or a spatula. Sear the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until well-browned and cooked through. Use a thermometer if you like, aiming for an internal temperature of 165ºF to ensure food safety. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 5: Prepare garlic butter sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the chopped garlic to the skillet. Stir gently with a wooden spatula, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and softened but not browned, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step infuses the butter with garlicky richness, creating a sauce that perfectly coats the chicken.
Step 6: Toss chicken in garlic butter
Remove the skillet from the heat and return the cooked chicken bites back to the pan. Toss them thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce to coat every piece with that silky, mouthwatering flavor. This final toss ensures the chicken absorbs every bit of the garlicky buttery goodness.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the chicken bites to a serving dish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you want to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, juicy tenderness combined with the intense garlic butter sauce at its best.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley not only brightens the plate with its vibrant green color but also adds a subtle herbaceous note that complements the richness of the garlic butter. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a refreshing zing, balancing the buttery flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice soak up the garlic butter sauce perfectly, while roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add color and nutrition. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette can refresh your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these bites into a sharing appetizer by serving them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Or pile them on a bed of garlicky buttered noodles for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, stuff them inside warm pita bread with some tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies, turning this simple dish into an irresistible sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a deliciously quick meal that tastes almost as good as fresh.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for longer, spread the cooked chicken bites on a baking sheet and freeze them individually for about an hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken bites gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a small pat of butter or a splash of water to keep them moist. Microwaving is okay for convenience, but reheating on the stovetop preserves the crispy texture better.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful for this recipe, chicken breasts can work if you’re careful not to overcook them. Cut into similar-sized pieces and watch the cooking time closely since breasts cook faster and can dry out.
How many cloves of garlic should I use?
Four to six cloves provide a perfect garlicky punch without overpowering the dish. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to lean towards six. Just be sure to saute gently so the garlic doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free kosher salt and check that your butter doesn’t contain any additives with gluten. It’s an easy dish for those with gluten sensitivities.
What skillet is best for searing the chicken?
A heavy-bottomed skillet like stainless steel or cast iron is ideal for this recipe. These pans retain heat well and help create that beautiful crust on the chicken which adds rich flavor and texture.
Is it okay to add other herbs or spices?
Of course! This recipe is a great base to get creative. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a sprinkle of thyme, or a dash of red pepper flakes can take the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe in exciting new directions, depending on what flavors you love.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s simple, quick, and packed with delicious flavor that feels special yet approachable. Whether for a cozy night in or an impressive last-minute dinner, these chicken bites deliver comfort and joy in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dish!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection in a skillet and coated in a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 to 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Trim off any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Cut the chicken into approximately 1 1/2-inch pieces. Pat dry with paper towels. Season all sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the skillet and sear chicken: Turn on your range hood if available. Heat a large 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to sizzle and start to brown.
- Sear the chicken on one side: Add the chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding. Without moving them, let the chicken sear until it turns opaque about two-thirds through and forms a well-browned crust on the bottom, approximately 4 minutes.
- Flip and finish cooking: Flip the chicken pieces using tongs or a spatula. Sear the other side until well-browned and fully cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165ºF. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl or plate.
- Prepare garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with the chopped garlic. Gently sauté, scraping up all browned bits from the pan bottom using a wooden spatula. Cook garlic until fragrant and no longer raw but not browned, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Toss chicken in garlic butter: Remove the skillet from heat. Return the chicken bites to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving dish, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken to achieve a nice crust.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid browning it to prevent bitterness.
- Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger servings.
