Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Your New Favorite Quick & Flavorful Meal

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites! Packed with robust garlic flavor and rich butter, these chicken morsels are cooked to tender perfection in a flash. Whether you’re looking for a speedy appetizer, a satisfying lunch, or a flavorful main course for dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. It’s not just quick – ready in under 15 minutes – but also low-carb, keto-friendly, and high in protein, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy yet indulgent meal.

Perfectly cooked Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, ready to be enjoyed.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These garlic butter chicken bites aren’t just a meal; they’re a culinary revelation designed for busy lives and discerning palates. Here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

Lightning-Fast Preparation: From start to finish, you can have these flavorful chicken bites on your table in under 15 minutes. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence but you still crave a homemade, delicious meal.
Diet-Friendly & Nutritious: Craving something satisfying that aligns with your health goals? These bites are low carb and keto-friendly, making them ideal for various dietary plans. Plus, they’re packed with protein, keeping you feeling full and energized.
Incredibly Versatile: Don’t limit yourself! Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, a quick and fulfilling lunch, or a stellar main course paired with your favorite sides. Their adaptability makes them a go-to for any occasion.
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of rich, aromatic garlic and creamy butter creates an irresistible sauce that coats every succulent piece of chicken. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Fantastic Leftovers: Unlike some chicken dishes that dry out upon reheating, these garlic butter chicken bites maintain their tenderness and flavor, making them excellent for meal prepping or enjoying the next day. Simply reheat gently for another delightful experience.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Achieving the best flavor starts with quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for crafting these delicious garlic butter chicken bites:

Chicken: For ultimate tenderness and quick cooking, I highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook faster and absorb flavors beautifully. If you prefer a richer, slightly fattier bite, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative, just note they might require a few extra minutes on the skillet. Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Garlic: This is the star of the show! Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic, pungent, and aromatic garlic butter flavor. Skip the pre-minced jarred garlic if possible; the difference in taste is significant.
Unsalted Butter: Good quality unsalted butter is key. Using unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. It creates that luscious, golden-brown crust and forms the rich base of our sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce (Optional, but Highly Recommended): A secret weapon for adding a deep, savory umami flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and garlic. Just a teaspoon can elevate the dish to new heights.
Hot Sauce (Mild or Spicy, Your Choice): This isn’t just about heat; it’s about adding a subtle tang and depth. A mild hot sauce works wonders for flavor without overpowering, but feel free to crank up the spice with a hotter variety if you dare!
Red Crushed Pepper (Optional): For those who love a little kick, a pinch of red crushed pepper flakes adds a pleasant warmth that enhances the garlic and butter. Adjust to your personal spice preference.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end is a game-changer. It brightens the flavors, cuts through the richness of the butter, and adds a zesty finish that truly makes the dish pop.
Spices: Beyond the fresh garlic, a simple blend of garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper forms the foundation of our seasoning. Paprika adds a lovely color and mild sweetness, while Italian seasoning provides herbaceous notes.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley at the end adds a touch of freshness, color, and a subtle herbaceous aroma, making the dish even more appealing.

All the fresh ingredients you’ll need for these flavorful chicken bites.

How to Master These Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites (Step-by-Step Guide)

Creating these incredibly flavorful garlic butter chicken bites is straightforward and quick. Follow these simple steps for perfectly tender and juicy results every time:

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat from your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Then, slice the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and allows each piece to absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce. For optimal tenderness, allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Season generously with your chosen blend of spices, salt, and pepper (garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning work wonderfully here). Make sure to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in the butter and seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side, allowing it to get a nice golden-brown sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Infuse the Flavor: Once the chicken has a good sear on all sides, stir in the remaining ingredients: finely minced fresh garlic, Worcestershire sauce (if using), hot sauce, lemon juice, and red crushed pepper (if desired). Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is well coated in this aromatic mixture.
Finish Cooking: Cover the skillet and allow the chicken to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The juices should run clear, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Chicken bites cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, as this can lead to dry chicken.
Taste and Serve: Give the chicken a final stir and check for seasoning. Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites beautifully plated with a side of white rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Unlock the full potential of this recipe with these expert tips, ensuring your garlic butter chicken bites are always a resounding success:

Customize Your Seasoning: While our recommended spices (garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning) create a fantastic base, feel free to experiment! Cajun seasoning can add a zesty kick, or try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Make it your own!
Avoid Overcooking: This is perhaps the most crucial tip! Chicken bites cook very quickly due to their small size. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Amplify the Sauce: If you love a saucier dish, you can easily create more pan sauce. After searing the chicken, stir in 1/2 cup of white wine (for extra depth) or chicken broth. Let it simmer briefly to deglaze the pan and pick up all those flavorful browned bits. A cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) can be added at the end to thicken the sauce if desired.
Room Temperature Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly and prevents it from seizing up when it hits the hot pan, resulting in more tender bites.
Perfect Pairings: These versatile chicken bites are delicious with a variety of sides. Serve them simply with fluffy white rice or quinoa, or opt for something heartier like creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables are excellent choices.
Add Some Veggies: Want to make it a one-pan meal? Add some quick-cooking vegetables like sliced mushrooms, fresh spinach (stir in at the very end until wilted), or diced bell peppers along with the chicken for added nutrients and flavor.

Can I Bake Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Instead?

Absolutely! While the stovetop method yields a beautiful sear and quick cooking, baking is a great option if you prefer a hands-off approach or are cooking a larger batch. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown. Keep in mind that baked chicken bites might have a slightly different texture and won’t get the same crispy sear as those cooked on the stovetop, and the cooking time can be a bit longer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These garlic butter chicken bites make excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prepping! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storage: Allow any leftover chicken bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, the best method is to place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny splash of chicken broth or water. Cover and cook until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This helps to retain moisture and prevent drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, but the skillet method yields a better texture. For crispier results, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making garlic butter chicken bites:

Can I use frozen chicken? While fresh chicken is always preferred for optimal texture, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method before proceeding with the recipe. Pat them very dry to help with searing.
How can I make this spicier? To add more heat, increase the amount of red crushed pepper flakes or use a spicier hot sauce. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper with your other seasonings.
Can I meal prep this recipe? Absolutely! These chicken bites are fantastic for meal prepping. Cook them as directed, then portion them out into containers with your desired sides (rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables). Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What kind of skillet is best? A cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet is ideal for this recipe. They retain heat well and provide an excellent surface for searing the chicken, resulting in that desirable golden-brown crust.
Is this recipe suitable for kids? Yes, these chicken bites are generally kid-friendly. You might want to omit the hot sauce and red crushed pepper if your children are sensitive to spice, or adjust the amount to a very mild level. The buttery garlic flavor is usually a hit with youngsters!

More Delicious Chicken & Meat Recipes You’ll Enjoy

If you loved these garlic butter chicken bites, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our flavorful recipes:

Honey Butter Fried Chicken
Garlic Butter Steak Tips
The Best Chicken Meatballs
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Tried this incredibly delicious recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave a star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page. Your feedback helps us and other home cooks. And consider following me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest for more culinary inspiration!

5 from 8 votes

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

By

Julie Maestre

These quick and easy garlic butter chicken bites are bursting with flavor, perfectly cooked, and versatile enough for any meal.

Prep:

5 minutes

Cook:

7 minutes

Total:

12 minutes

Servings:
3

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Equipment

Skillet (preferably cast iron or heavy-bottomed)
Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Sharp Knife
Cutting Board

Ingredients

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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts , cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp paprika
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2 tbsp hot sauce
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce , optional
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1 tsp lemon juice
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1/8 tsp red crushed pepper , optional
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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fresh parsley , chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and is slightly foamy, add the cubed chicken along with the garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly. Cook the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
Stir in the finely minced fresh garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), lemon juice, and red crushed pepper (if using). Toss to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.
Uncover, stir the chicken, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter chicken bites!

Notes

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking and tenderness. Boneless chicken thighs can also be used, but note they will require a slightly longer cooking time. Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Julie Maestre

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

7 minutes

Total Time:

12 minutes

Course:
Appetizer, Main Course, Dinner, Lunch

Servings:
3

Calories:
376

Keyword:
chicken bites, easy chicken bites, garlic butter chicken bites, quick chicken, keto chicken, low carb chicken

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