Go Back
garlic butter chicken bites recipe
Ben Carraoli

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

When I first made these garlic butter chicken bites, it instantly became one of my go-to recipes. The tender, juicy chicken combined with the rich flavor of garlic butter and a zesty hint of lemon felt like a gourmet treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create a light coating for the chicken giving it a golden crust.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the chicken's natural flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a mix of herbs to complement the garlic butter sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic: Adds a subtle garlic layer to the chicken coating.
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces): Fresh chicken works best; avoid frozen chicken for a juicier result.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for pan-searing the chicken to golden brown.
  • 1 tablespoon grated garlic about 6 garlic cloves: Grating releases more flavor and aroma.
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine: Adds depth to the sauce. You can substitute with chicken broth if needed.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed: The key to a creamy, indulgent sauce.
  • 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors beautifully.
  • Chopped parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness for garnishing.

Method
 

  1. Start by mixing the flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and granulated garlic in a medium bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture to ensure even coating. This step is crucial for creating those crispy, golden bites.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes on one side before flipping. Cook for another 4 minutes until fully done and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. With your skillet on medium heat, add the grated garlic and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the wine and cook while stirring often, letting most of the wine evaporate after about 2 minutes.
  4. Once the wine has reduced, turn the heat to low and add the butter cubes and lemon juice. Stir until the butter melts into a silky sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat each bite with the garlic butter goodness.
  5. Transfer the chicken bites to a serving dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a final touch. Serve immediately while still warm.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Always grate fresh garlic and use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even searing.
  • Deglaze With Broth: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth is a great alternative to release all those flavorful browned bits in the pan.
  • Prep Ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken in advance to save time on busy evenings.