Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of bright lemon and savory garlic makes for a deliciously tangy, aromatic bite-sized chicken that’s hard to resist!
Here’s a simple recipe to make these zesty, tender chicken bites:
Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (about 450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color and mild heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. (If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute marinade works!)
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Add More Flavor (Optional):
- When the chicken is cooked, you can drizzle a little more lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of freshness and zing.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the chicken bites to a serving plate.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus, or a dipping sauce like tzatziki or garlic aioli if desired.
Tips:
- To make this dish even more versatile, you can toss the chicken in a little flour before cooking to give it a slightly crispier texture.
- You can also make this dish in the oven—just spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Enjoy!
These Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are fresh, savory, and packed with flavor. They’re a great option for appetizers, a protein-packed snack, or even served with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal.