Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: This recipe uses 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which cook quickly and stay tender. You can also substitute chicken thighs if you prefer.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): A light dusting of flour helps the chicken develop a golden crust when cooked.
- Dried Oregano (½ tsp): Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the chicken bites.
- Dried Basil (½ tsp): Basil pairs beautifully with garlic and butter, giving the chicken a fragrant taste.
- Paprika (½ tsp): For a mild smokiness and color, paprika adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp) & Freshly Ground Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken properly.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the chicken and adding a rich taste.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Butter forms the base of the delicious sauce. It adds richness and a slightly nutty flavor when browned.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is key to the bold flavor in this dish.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them develop a nice sear when cooked. Then, cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with flour, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss the chicken until evenly coated with the flour and seasonings. This step adds a light crust when cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Use a large cast-iron skillet or any heavy-bottomed pan. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat, and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Wait until the oil is hot, and the butter is melted before adding the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Stir everything together, letting the garlic cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, without letting it burn.
- Serve Immediately: Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), serve it immediately. The garlic butter sauce will be deliciously coating each chicken bite.
Notes
Serving and Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These garlic butter chicken bites are not only tasty but can be plated beautifully for any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:
- On a bed of rice: Spoon the chicken bites and garlic butter sauce over steamed rice for a simple but delicious meal.
- With roasted vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or steamed veggies for a complete and healthy dinner.
- As a party appetizer: Stick toothpicks into the chicken bites and serve them as an appetizer for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner