15-minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe in 15 Minutes

Weeknight dinners demand quick, mouthwatering solutions that satisfy hunger without sacrificing flavor.

These garlic butter chicken bites deliver serious culinary magic in just 15 minutes.

Tender chicken pieces dance with rich, golden garlic butter, creating an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen.

Perfectly seasoned and incredibly simple, this recipe turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Each bite promises a burst of savory goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

The combination of juicy chicken and silky garlic butter creates a dish so delectable, you’ll want to make it part of your regular rotation.

Fast and Flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Rapid Cooking: Whip up this delectable dish in just a quarter of an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous meals.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Requires only a handful of simple, readily available ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
  • Kid-Friendly Delight: Tender chicken bites coated in rich, buttery garlic sauce appeal to both children and adults, making it a crowd-pleasing option for family dinners.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with this skillet recipe that combines seasoning, cooking, and serving in a single pan, saving time and reducing dish washing.

Shopping List for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Protein:
  • Chicken Bites: Tender pieces of chicken that provide the main protein for this quick and delicious dish.
Fat and Flavor Base:
  • Butter: Adds rich, creamy texture and helps create a golden brown exterior for the chicken.
  • Garlic: Provides a bold, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Seasoning and Garnish:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Parsley (Optional): Fresh herb that adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

How to Cook Juicy Chicken Bites in Minutes

Step 1: Prep The Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure deep flavor penetration throughout each morsel.

Step 2: Heat The Skillet

Place a large skillet on medium heat.

Add butter and allow it to melt completely, creating a smooth golden base for cooking the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Garlic

Toss minced garlic into the melted butter.

Stir quickly and cook for approximately 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and releases its delightful aroma without burning.

Step 4: Cook Chicken Bites

Carefully place seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet.

Spread them evenly to ensure maximum contact with the buttery surface.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, rotating until chicken develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior and reaches perfect internal temperature.

Step 5: Finish With Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken bites.

Gently toss to distribute herbs evenly, adding a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Transfer chicken bites to a serving plate immediately.

These succulent morsels are best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, with optional side dishes like roasted vegetables or crisp salad.

Tips for Golden, Flavorful Chicken Bites

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
  • Add garlic just before chicken to prevent burning and maintain its sweet, aromatic essence without bitterness.
  • Use medium heat to cook chicken evenly, preventing outside burning while keeping inside tender and juicy.
  • Sprinkle chopped parsley right before serving to add bright, fresh notes and a pop of color to the dish.
  • Skip any potential flour coating to keep this recipe naturally low-carb and keto-compatible.

Fun Flavors for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace butter with ghee and add extra herbs like thyme and rosemary for enhanced flavor while keeping the recipe low-carb.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap butter with olive oil or coconut oil and use nutritional yeast for a rich, savory taste that mimics butter's creaminess.
  • Spicy Herb Chicken Bites: Incorporate red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and fresh cilantro to transform the classic recipe into a zesty, bold meal.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Mix in dried oregano, lemon zest, and replace parsley with fresh mint for a Greek-style chicken bite experience.

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Bites as Appetizers

  • Dinner Plate Companion: Serve these succulent chicken bites over fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
  • Fresh Herb Sprinkle: Garnish with additional chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and extra fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • Quick Side Pairing: Complement the chicken with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced meal that comes together in minutes.
  • Dipping Delight: Offer a small bowl of ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli on the side for those who love extra sauce and want to dunk these tender chicken bites.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
  • Transfer cooled chicken bites to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Prevent freezer burn by using a proper storage method.
  • Place chicken bites on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature and moisture to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for making these quick and easy garlic butter chicken bites.

  • How can I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prep the chicken by cutting and seasoning it in advance, then quickly cook when ready to eat.

  • Is this dish spicy or kid-friendly?

This recipe is mild and very kid-friendly, with simple garlic butter flavoring that most children enjoy.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
15-minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

15-minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Juicy 15-minute garlic butter chicken bites deliver a flavor explosion that whisks home cooks straight to culinary bliss. Savory, quick, and irresistibly simple, you’ll want this zesty chicken to become your go-to weeknight dinner solution.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 large chicken breasts

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Fats and Aromatics:

  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over chicken pieces, ensuring each bite is thoroughly seasoned.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium temperature, allowing butter to melt and spread across the cooking surface.
  3. Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring continuously until aromatic and lightly golden, approximately 30-45 seconds.
  4. Carefully arrange seasoned chicken bites in the skillet, creating a single layer to promote even browning and consistent cooking.
  5. Allow chicken to sizzle and develop a rich, golden exterior, gently turning pieces every 2-3 minutes to prevent burning and ensure thorough cooking.
  6. Monitor internal chicken temperature, cooking for roughly 7-8 minutes until meat reaches a safe 165°F and displays a uniform golden-brown color.
  7. Remove skillet from heat and quickly incorporate fresh chopped parsley, tossing gently to distribute herbs throughout the chicken bites.
  8. Transfer garlic butter chicken bites to a serving platter immediately, drizzling any remaining buttery pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking and golden-brown exterior.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve crispy, caramelized edges that lock in maximum flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the skillet to prevent steaming; cook chicken in batches if necessary for perfect browning.
  • Customize the dish by adding red pepper flakes for heat or swapping parsley with fresh thyme for a different herbal note.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star