Preparation

Step-by-Step Guide on Preparing the Chicken

1. Drying the Chicken:
   • Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving a good sear.
2. Cutting the Chicken:
   • Using a sharp knife and a clean cutting board, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
3. Seasoning the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
   • Optionally, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
4. Coating with Flour and Herbs:
   • Sprinkle a light layer of flour over the seasoned chicken. Toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. This helps in creating a crispy exterior.
   • If using dried herbs (such as oregano or thyme), add them now for extra flavor.

Importance of Proper Seasoning and Coating

Proper seasoning is crucial to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Salt and pepper form the base, while paprika adds a mild, smoky depth. The flour coating helps in achieving a crispy texture during cooking, which contrasts nicely with the tender chicken interior. Fresh herbs like parsley should be added towards the end to maintain their bright, aromatic qualities.

Tools Required for Preparation

• Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for efficiently cutting the chicken into uniform pieces.
• Cutting Board: Use a clean, sturdy cutting board to provide a safe surface for chopping.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to toss and season the chicken pieces.
• Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, for even heat distribution and achieving a perfect sear.
• Tongs or Spatula: For turning the chicken pieces while cooking.

Cooking Steps 

Detailed Instructions for Cooking the Chicken in a Skillet

1. Heating the Skillet:
   • Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up thoroughly before adding any ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
2. Adding Oil and Butter:
   • Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and two tablespoons of unsalted butter. The oil prevents the butter from burning, while the butter adds richness to the dish.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
   • Carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
   • Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Sear and Avoiding Sticking

• Preheat the Skillet: Ensuring the skillet is adequately heated before adding the chicken helps to create a non-stick surface and promotes even browning.
• Dry Chicken: Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking helps to achieve a better sear.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches to maintain high heat in the skillet, ensuring each piece gets a proper sear.
• Minimal Movement: Let the chicken cook undisturbed on each side for a few minutes to form a golden crust.

Final Steps: Adding Garlic and Parsley

4. Adding Garlic:
   • Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, push the pieces to the edges of the skillet, creating a space in the center. Add another tablespoon of butter if needed and then add the minced garlic to the center of the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
5. Combining and Finishing:
   • Toss the chicken pieces back into the garlic, ensuring they are well coated with the garlic butter mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Adding Parsley:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the chicken. Toss to combine, adding a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.

Visual Indicators for Knowing When the Chicken is Fully Cooked

• Color: The chicken should be golden brown on the outside.
• Firmness: Pressing the chicken lightly with a fork or tongs, it should feel firm to the touch.
• Internal Temperature: For precise cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serving Ideas

As an Entree:

• Serve the garlic butter chicken bites as a main course alongside a variety of side dishes. This makes for a hearty and fulfilling meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

As an Appetizer:

• Present the chicken bites on a large platter with toothpicks for easy handling. They make an excellent starter for a dinner party or a casual gathering.

As a Party Platter:

• Arrange the chicken bites on a large serving tray with dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy aioli. This setup is perfect for game nights or cocktail parties, offering a tasty finger food option.

Pairing Suggestions with Side Dishes

Lemon Couscous:

• The bright and zesty flavor of lemon couscous complements the rich garlic butter chicken bites perfectly. The light, fluffy texture of the couscous balances the dish and provides a refreshing contrast.

Steamed Vegetables:

• A side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots, adds color and nutrition to the meal. The simplicity of steamed vegetables allows the bold flavors of the chicken bites to shine.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• For a comforting and indulgent pairing, serve the chicken bites with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The garlic in the potatoes echoes the flavors in the chicken, creating a harmonious plate.

Mixed Green Salad:

• A fresh mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich chicken bites. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for extra flavor and texture.

Presentation Tips for Entertaining Guests

• Use Elegant Platters: Arrange the chicken bites on elegant serving platters or wooden boards to enhance the presentation.
• Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls around the platter to add variety and visual appeal.
• Layering: Create layers with the chicken bites and side dishes on a large serving tray to create a visually appealing centerpiece.

Recipe Variations 

Using Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts

Chicken Thighs:

• Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Thighs offer a richer, more succulent flavor and remain juicy even with longer cooking times.
• Cut the thighs into bite-sized pieces, similar to the breasts. The slight increase in fat content provides a different, but equally delicious, texture and flavor profile.

Adding Extra Flavors

Lemon Juice:

• Incorporate the zest and juice of one lemon into the butter garlic mixture. The citrus notes will brighten the dish and add a tangy contrast to the richness of the butter.

Red Pepper Flakes:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken for a subtle heat. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness.

Parmesan Cheese:

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken bites just before serving. The cheese adds a salty, umami depth that complements the garlic butter.

Herb Infusions:

• Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or tarragon. Add these herbs to the garlic butter mixture to infuse the chicken with additional layers of flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

Omitting Flour:

• To make the recipe gluten-free, simply omit the flour used for coating the chicken. Instead, lightly dust the chicken with cornstarch or leave it uncoated for a more natural texture.
• Ensure all other ingredients, such as butter and seasonings, are certified gluten-free to avoid any contamination.

Storage and Reheating

Proper Storage Methods for Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover garlic butter chicken bites in an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Labeling: Label the container with the date to ensure freshness.

Reheating Instructions to Maintain Texture and Flavor

• Stovetop: Reheat the chicken bites in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking and to refresh the flavor. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken bites on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for 10-15 minutes until thoroughly warm.
• Microwave: Place chicken bites in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Freezing Tips and How to Thaw and Reheat Frozen Chicken Bites

• Freezing: Place the cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Follow the stovetop or oven reheating methods above for best results. Ensure the chicken is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

FAQs 

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Answer: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder. Use about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic called for in the recipe. While fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor, garlic powder will still impart a pleasant garlic taste. Another alternative is using pre-minced garlic from a jar, but be aware that its flavor might be slightly less robust than fresh garlic.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Answer: Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer a richer and more succulent flavor. They remain juicy and tender even with longer cooking times. Cut the thighs into bite-sized pieces just like you would with chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Answer: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan:

1. Preheat the Skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A properly heated pan creates a natural non-stick surface.
2. Use Oil and Butter: Combine olive oil and butter. The oil raises the smoke point of the butter, preventing it from burning.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan reduces the temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing.
4. Minimal Movement: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop a crust that will release easily from the pan.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Answer: Yes, this recipe is suitable for freezing. To freeze, allow the chicken bites to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the chicken bites to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using the stovetop or oven methods to maintain texture and flavor.

What are some quick side dish recommendations?

Answer: Here are some quick side dish recommendations to pair with garlic butter chicken bites:

1. Lemon Couscous: A light, fluffy side that complements the richness of the chicken.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add color and nutrition.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and indulgent, they echo the garlic flavor.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp, refreshing contrast.
5. Rice Pilaf: A simple and flavorful rice dish that pairs well with the chicken bites.

Conclusion 

Garlic butter chicken bites are a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making them an ideal choice for any meal occasion. Their quick preparation and versatile nature allow them to shine as both a main course and an appetizer. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is accessible even for novice cooks. The rich, savory taste of garlic and butter combined with tender chicken pieces is sure to please any palate.

We encourage you to try this recipe and experience its deliciousness firsthand. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, garlic butter chicken bites are sure to impress. Share this recipe with others and spread the joy of a quick, tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights or special gatherings.

Explore more mouth-watering recipes on our site, where you’ll find a variety of dishes to suit any occasion and preference. From quick weeknight dinners to elaborate party platters, our collection has something for everyone. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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• Author: Christine

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Garlic butter chicken bites are a delightful dish featuring tender, juicy pieces of chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy meal that is both flavorful and versatile. Whether served as a main course or a tasty appetizer, these chicken bites are sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 oz ( 1 ¼ lb) boneless,skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dired basil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp  unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

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Instructions

• Dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
• Place them in a bowl and sprinkle the flour, basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper on top. Toss until all the pieces are well covered with the flour and herbs.
• Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once the oil is hot and the butter melts, add the chicken pieces in one layer.
• Let them cook without moving them, for about 3 minutes. Flip them over, and cook for 2 minutes more.
• Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Cook for one more minute until the chicken is fully cooked and serve immediately.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh garlic and parsley to enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.
• Adjust seasoning and additional flavors (like red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese) to suit your taste preferences.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.