15 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These 15 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are seared until golden and tossed in a rich garlic herb butter sauce—an ultra-fast, ultra-flavorful chicken dinner ready in minutes!
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 295kcal
Cost: 2
Equipment
- large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)
- mixing bowl
- Tongs
- wooden spoon
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3-4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs)
- pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry and cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it get hot. Add chicken in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 3–4 minutes without moving.
- Flip each piece and cook another 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F). Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the skillet and scrape up browned bits. Add garlic and cook 60–90 seconds until fragrant and golden.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Cook 1 minute to meld flavors. Stir in parsley and optional lemon juice.
- Serve immediately while hot and crisp around the edges.
Notes
For the juiciest, most flavorful chicken bites, make sure the pan is very hot before adding the chicken and avoid moving the pieces while they sear. Uniform 1-inch cubes ensure even cooking. Fresh garlic is essential for the sauce—it creates a deep, aromatic flavor that garlic powder can't replicate. Scrape the browned bits from the pan when melting the butter; they add tremendous flavor. Chicken thighs also work great and stay extra juicy. These bites are versatile: serve with veggies, over rice or cauliflower rice, tossed into salads, or as a quick appetizer.