15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful twist on your typical weeknight dinner. They boast juicy, tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich garlic and butter sauce that’s simply irresistible. Plus, this easy one-pan recipe means less cleanup, leaving you plenty of time to kick back and enjoy your meal without the fuss. Just picture it: a bustling weeknight, you’re running low on energy after a long day, yet you’re craving something comforting and delicious. This dish is the perfect solution, taking only 15 minutes from prep to plate.
Table of Contents
There’s something incredibly satisfying about cooking chicken in a cast iron skillet. The chicken cooks evenly, enveloping each piece in a mouthwatering blend of savory garlic and herbs. Not to mention, the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply divine! Whether you’re serving it over a bed of fluffy rice, alongside pasta, or as part of a fresh salad, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are guaranteed to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With a total time of just 23 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bite oozes with mouthwatering garlic and butter goodness that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These golden, buttery bites look fantastic on any table, making them a real showstopper at gatherings.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for a casual dinner, lunch prep, or even a party appetizer—these tasty bites fit any occasion.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by swapping out the flour or provide low-carb options.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The centerpiece of this dish; ensure they’re fresh for the best flavor and tenderness.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps to create a light crust that locks in moisture; can be substituted with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy flavor; Italian seasoning can also work well.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Infuses a sweet, aromatic touch, making it an essential herb in this recipe.
- ½ tsp sweet paprika: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color; smoked paprika can be used for a bolder flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to taste depending on your preferences.
- Freshly ground pepper to taste: Adds a hint of spice; use freshly cracked pepper for the best taste.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that aids in cooking the chicken, giving it a nice sear.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided: The star of the sauce that gives depth, richness, and incredible flavor; feel free to use salted if that’s all you have.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic creates a strong aromatic flavor; always opt for fresh over pre-minced.
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped: Brightens up the dish with freshness and a pop of color; you can use cilantro for a different twist.
How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
Prepare the chicken: Start by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel to remove moisture, ensuring they sear beautifully. Cut the chicken into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces for quick and even cooking.
Season the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika, salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground pepper. Toss everything together until all the pieces are coated in the flour and herbs, giving them a flavorful crust.
Heat the skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the oil shimmers and the butter melts, the skillet is ready for the chicken.
Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet. Let them cook without moving them for about 3 minutes until they develop a lovely golden crust. Flip the chicken over and let them cook for another 2 minutes until they’re no longer pink in the center.
Add flavor: Toss in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, minced garlic, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to cook for an additional minute until fragrant and the garlic is golden.
Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, transfer the succulent bites to a plate. Enjoy immediately while hot, perfect on their own or paired with your favorite side like rice, pasta, or a vibrant salad.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Just keep in mind, the texture might change slightly, but refreshing with a bit more butter can bring back that rich flavor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Use fresh chicken: For the best flavor and juiciness, make sure your chicken is fresh.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking in batches may be necessary to ensure each piece gets a nice sear without steaming.
- Let the garlic cook but don’t burn it: Burning can lead to bitterness, so keep an eye on it during the final cooking stage.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to play around with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.
- Make ahead: These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be prepped up to a day in advance; just store them in the fridge and cook them when ready.
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for those busy days when you still want something delicious at dinner. Whether you serve them as a main dish or an appetizer, they’re sure to impress with their bold flavors and beautiful presentation. I encourage you to experiment a little; maybe toss in some vegetables or tweak the spices to fit your taste. Enjoy these delightful bites just as they are, and revel in the joyous flavors that come together in just one pan!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take an extra couple of minutes compared to breasts.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with dairy-free butter or olive oil for cooking, and the recipe will still taste fantastic.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them over rice, pasta, a hearty salad, or even alongside crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic sauce.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should no longer be pink inside and juices should run clear.
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📖 Recipe Card
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: One Pot
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the irresistible flavor of 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. This easy one-pan dish combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 20 oz ( 1 ¼ lbs ) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Instructions
- Dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle with flour, basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the pieces evenly.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Cook for another minute until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, either alone or with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preference.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 722mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 134mg
