When the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter fills your kitchen, you know something delicious is on the way. The Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. With tender chicken pieces coated in a savory garlic butter sauce, this recipe works beautifully to deliver both taste and ease.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty chicken dish that comes together in no time. It’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. You can prep the chicken ahead of time and simply cook it when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken bites cooked to golden perfection.
- A delicious garlic butter sauce that enhances flavor.
- Only takes 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weekday dinner.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
For the Chicken
- 1¼ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For Flavor
- 1½ tablespoons minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken thighs can replace breasts for more flavor.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil.
- Fresh parsley can be swapped for cilantro for a different taste.
- Italian seasoning can be replaced with herbs de Provence.
How to Make It
Let’s get started with cooking your dish!
Preheat
Preheat a skillet.
Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Toss
Toss the chicken.
Toss chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika to evenly coat.
Add Oil and Butter
Add oil and butter to the skillet.
Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Tilt the pan to evenly coat.
Arrange Chicken
Add chicken in the skillet.
Add chicken in an even single layer, ensuring not to crowd the pieces so they brown rather than steam.
Brown Chicken
Cook until golden brown.
Cook until nicely golden brown on the bottom, about 3 minutes, then flip to the opposite side and cook for 2 minutes longer or until nearly cooked through. You may have to cook the pieces in batches.
Add Remaining Butter and Garlic
Add butter and garlic.
Add the remaining butter along with garlic and parsley. Cook and simmer chicken bites for 1 minute longer or until cooked through, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release brown bits.
Serve
Serve immediately.
Serve right away with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with kale and blistered tomatoes.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the skillet is hot to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness.
- Fresh herbs should be added at the end for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with spaghetti for a hearty meal.
- Serve over a bed of steamed rice.
- Complement with a refreshing side salad.
