(Snack or Dinner—You Decide)

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and incredibly versatile recipe, these Garlic Butter

Chicken Bites are bound to become a new favorite. Imagine tender, juicy pieces of chicken

pan-seared to a golden finish, then coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Sounds tempting,

right? The best part is how flexible this recipe can be: enjoy it as a hearty snack, serve it

over rice or pasta for dinner, or even use it to elevate salads and wraps.

This dish works well for busy weekdays and relaxed weekends alike. You’ll only need a

single skillet, a handful of everyday ingredients, and about 15 minutes of active cooking time.

And while the name suggests a simple snack, don’t be surprised if these savory bites find

their way into your primary meal rotations. Let’s dive in and turn basic chicken into a buttery,

garlicky sensation—perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy: Perfect for when you need something fast—15 minutes is all it takes

to get these chicken bites from stovetop to table.

2. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and less time in the kitchen means more time to

relax and enjoy your meal.

3. Flavor-Packed: Butter and garlic combine to create a rich, savory sauce that clings

to each bite of chicken.

4. Versatile Meal Option: They’re equally delicious as a quick snack or as a main

course with your favorite sides.

5. Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this recipe is simple enough

to follow with great results.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make about four servings. Feel free to adjust

according to your preference or availability of ingredients.

For the Chicken Bites

● 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) cut into bite-sized

pieces● 1 teaspoon salt

● ½ teaspoon black pepper

● 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra garlicky depth)

● 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative)

● 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

● 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

● 3–4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)

● ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)

● 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds brightness)

● 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and fresh flavor)

Note: If you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, chicken thighs also work wonderfully.

They’re extra juicy and hold up well to quick cooking methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Season

1. Cut the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess

moisture, then cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes.

2. Season Well: In a medium bowl, combine salt, black pepper, and (optional) garlic

powder. Sprinkle this seasoning blend over the chicken pieces, tossing to coat them

evenly.

Pro Tip: Removing surface moisture from the chicken helps them develop a better sear in

the pan, leading to a crispier exterior.

Step 2: Lightly Coat in Flour

1. Add Flour or Cornstarch: Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch) over the seasoned

chicken. Use your hands or a spoon to toss until each piece is lightly coated.

2. Why This Matters: The flour helps create a light crust on the chicken bites, which

locks in moisture and adds a hint of crunch when you sear them.

Pro Tip: If you’d like an even crispier bite, increase the flour or cornstarch to 3 or 4

tablespoons, but shake off any excess before cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken1. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add one

tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Cook in Batches if Needed: Add the chicken in a single layer when the oil is hot.

Avoid overcrowding; cooking in batches is better than steaming the chicken.

3. Sear for 3–4 Minutes: Let the chicken cook undisturbed on one side for 3–4 minutes

or until a golden crust forms.

4. Flip & Continue Cooking: Turn the chicken pieces and cook for another 2–3

minutes, or until they’re cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).

Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Pro Tip: Overcrowding the skillet lowers the heat and creates steam, preventing that nice

browning you want. Work in two rounds if your skillet isn’t large enough.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce Heat: Turn the heat down to medium.

2. Melt the Butter: Add the three tablespoons of butter in the same skillet (do not wipe

it out—those browned bits are flavor gold).

3. Add Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes: Once the butter melts, stir in minced garlic and

red pepper flakes (if desired). Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic

becomes fragrant.

4. Incorporate Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice, deglaze the pan, and lift any

browned bits from the bottom.

5. Return Chicken to Pan: Add the cooked chicken bites back to the skillet, tossing

them gently in the buttery garlic sauce for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks; it can burn quickly and turn bitter if left

unattended on high heat.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Parsley Finish: Turn off the heat, then sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken

bites.

2. Plate & Enjoy: Transfer everything to a serving dish or serve directly from the pan.

Congratulations—your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are ready. Pick them as a snack with

dipping sauces or plate them alongside side dishes for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

● As a Snack: Serve in a bowl with toothpicks for casual munching. Offer a variety of

dipping sauces, such as ranch, spicy aioli, or honey mustard.● Over Rice or Pasta: Spoon the chicken bites and sauce over steamed rice, creamy

mashed potatoes, or noodles. The buttery garlic sauce doubles as a decadent

topping.

● In Wraps or Tacos: Tuck these chicken bites into tortillas with lettuce, diced

tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.

● Salad Topper: Add them to a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and

cucumbers. The garlic butter acts as a warm dressing component.

Meal Prep & Storage

1. Make Ahead: You can cut and season the chicken earlier in the day. Store it in the

refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

2. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 4

days.

3. Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken bites (without sauce) in a sealed bag or container

for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet with a little oil.

4. Reheating Tips: Warm gently in a skillet to retain crispiness. If you need more

sauce, add a splash of chicken stock or an extra tablespoon of butter.

Variations & Substitutions

● Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle in some hot sauce for an

added kick.

● Herb Swap: If parsley isn’t your favorite, use fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for a

different flavor twist.

● Wine Sauce Variation: Replace half the lemon juice with a splash of white wine. Let

it simmer for a minute before returning the chicken to the pan.

● Low-Carb or Keto: Skip the flour and simply sear the seasoned chicken. You’ll get a

slightly less crispy finish, but the flavor remains delicious.

Common Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Yes! Chicken thighs are often more forgiving and remain extra juicy. Adjust the cooking

time slightly if your thigh pieces are thicker.

Q: Do I need fresh garlic if I already use garlic powder?

A: Fresh garlic brings the sauce a more vibrant, aromatic flavor. The garlic powder in the

seasoning mix infuses the chicken, while fresh garlic in the sauce adds that classic, robust

taste.Q: What’s the key to preventing my chicken from drying out?

A: Two main tips: don’t overcook (use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F / 74°C internal

temp) and ensure your skillet is adequately heated to sear the exterior quickly, sealing in

moisture.

Q: How do I make a thicker sauce?

A: Add a slurry of 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon of water. Stir it into

the butter-garlic mixture before returning the chicken to the pan.

Q: Is lemon juice essential?

A: It’s optional but highly recommended—it cuts through the richness of the butter and adds

a bright contrast.

Conclusion

From quick snack bites at parties to a simple weeknight dinner option, these Garlic

Butter Chicken Bites are as versatile as they are flavorful. The buttery garlic sauce adds an

indulgent note, while the quick cooking time makes it an ideal solution for busy schedules or

spontaneous get-togethers. Whether you serve them with dipping sauces, on top of pasta, or

tucked into wraps, expect everyone to return for seconds—if they haven’t already

disappeared from the plate!