Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These garlic butter chicken bites are the ultimate comfort food! With tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan creates a mouthwatering dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a snack. Simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
4 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 20 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: For a complete meal, add sautéed veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Spicy version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cheese options: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or another cheese of your choice for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover garlic butter chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a richer flavor and juicier bite.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

3. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking and better texture.

4. What can I serve these garlic butter chicken bites with?

These chicken bites go great with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

5. How can I make the garlic butter sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it for a longer period, or you can add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).

6. Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spiced due to the optional red pepper flakes. If you want more heat, you can add extra flakes or hot sauce.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a large enough skillet to accommodate the increased quantity, or cook in batches.

8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Yes, you can use fresh thyme and oregano. Typically, use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

9. How do I make the garlic butter chicken bites crispy?

For a crispy exterior, you can sear the chicken pieces in a hot pan with more butter or oil until golden before simmering in the sauce.

10. Can I freeze garlic butter chicken bites?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken once cooked. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet after thawing.

Conclusion

Delicious garlic butter chicken bites are an easy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main dish, or snack, the savory garlic butter sauce combined with tender chicken is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving comfort food with a burst of flavor.