15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the epitome of a weeknight win. These tender, juicy chicken bites are coated in a deliciously rich garlic butter sauce that sings with flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels decadent yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Who said you need hours in the kitchen to create something spectacular?
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I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was busy juggling work and family commitments. I craved something comforting yet quick, and this dish immediately became a staple in our home. The idea that you can have dinner ready in less time than it takes to order out is still a personal triumph for me. Trust me, as soon as you try these 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, you’ll see why they’re an instant favorite, perfect for a cozy family meal or casual get-together with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The melt-in-your-mouth chicken pairs perfectly with the savory garlic butter, making every bite unforgettable.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden brown bits glistening in garlic butter—this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious!
- Flexible Serving: Perfect as a main dish or delightful appetizer for parties or gatherings.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to gluten-free with the right flour substitute.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 20 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, offering lean protein without excess fat. You can substitute with thighs for extra juiciness if you prefer.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps coat the chicken, creating a nice sear and acting as a thickener for the sauce. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy flavor. Fresh oregano can work too; just double the amount.
- ½ tsp dried basil: This herb provides a slightly sweet aroma that enhances the dish—fresh basil is lovely as well, though you should use more of it.
- ½ tsp sweet paprika: It gives a subtle sweetness and vibrant color. Smoked paprika can add a smoky depth if desired.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors. Adjust to taste based on your dietary needs.
- Freshly ground pepper to taste: Adds a nice bite. You can swap this with crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken, giving it a lovely golden crust. Choose extra virgin for superior flavor.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for that rich garlic butter flavor, adding creaminess. Be cautious with salted butter, as it may affect the overall saltiness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is the flavor powerhouse here, creating an aromatic base that’s irresistible.
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped: This brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish, although you can swap it with basil for a different touch.
How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
Prepare the chicken: Dry the 20 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a paper towel before cutting them into 1-inch pieces. This ensures they sear beautifully rather than steam when cooking.
Season the chicken: Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and sprinkle with 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp dried basil, ½ tsp sweet paprika, ½ tsp salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the flour and herbs—this creates a wonderful flavor base.
Heat the skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil along with 1 tbsp of the unsalted butter. Wait until the oil shimmers and the butter melts, before adding the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer.
Cook the chicken: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes, so it forms a nice crust. Carefully flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until they are golden and fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
Add flavor: Turn the heat down slightly, then stir in the remaining 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, the 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley. Cook for one more minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the butter to melt luxurious over the chicken.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, serve the chicken bites immediately while hot, either on their own or paired with your favorite side dishes like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Storing & Reheating
To store your garlic butter chicken bites at room temperature, place them in an airtight container and enjoy within a couple of hours. In the fridge, they can last up to 3 days, best kept in a sealed container to prevent dryness. If you’re looking to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture might soften a bit, but refreshing it with a touch of butter during reheating can help maintain its delicious flavor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a proper sear.
- For optimal flavor, use fresh herbs when possible. They elevate the dish in a way that dried herbs simply can’t match.
- Always taste for seasoning after the chicken is cooked. You can adjust salt and pepper based on your preference before serving.
- Don’t skip the resting period after cooking. Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes helps retain its juices, yielding a more tender bite.
- Feel free to experiment by adding vegetables like sliced bell peppers or spinach towards the end of cooking for a more colorful, nutritious meal.
These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only a feast for the palate but also a wonderfully efficient addition to your weeknight repertoire. With their rich flavors and easy preparation, they invite you to get creative with sides and pairings. There’s something special about making a dish that satisfies the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful meal!
Recipe FAQs
How do I ensure my chicken bites are tender?
To keep your chicken bites tender, avoid overcooking them. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, they’re done! Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Also, letting the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain moisture.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. Just be mindful of the amount to maintain the sauce’s richness.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or pasta. You might also consider serving them alongside a fresh, vibrant salad to balance their richness.
How can I spice up my garlic butter chicken bites?
If you’re eager to add some heat, consider including a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the garlic, or marinate the chicken in hot sauce before cooking. Feel free to experiment with different spices, like Cajun seasoning or lemon zest, for a zesty twist!
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📖 Recipe Card
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a perfect solution for a quick and flavorful meal. This recipe combines juicy chicken with fragrant garlic and butter for a tantalizing dish that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or satisfying cravings for comfort food.
Ingredients
- 20 oz ( 1 ¼ 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
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Instructions
- Dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, sprinkle the chicken with flour, basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once the oil is hot and the butter melts, add the chicken in a single layer and cook without moving for about 3 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Cook for one additional minute until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve immediately while hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet for even cooking.
Feel free to substitute other herbs or add more vegetables for variation.
This dish is delicious served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
