Here’s a simple recipe to make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
Ingredients:
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2 lbs chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
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Cut the chicken breasts (or thighs) into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, so you might need to cook the chicken in batches.
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Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Stir in the oregano (or Italian seasoning) and red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra kick.
4. Combine Chicken with Garlic Butter:
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Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Stir well to coat all the pieces with the flavorful sauce.
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Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors of the garlic butter.
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Add lemon juice for a fresh pop of flavor, if desired, and give it one last toss.
5. Garnish and Serve:
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Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.
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Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a simple salad.
Tips:
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Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: You can use chicken thighs for a more tender and juicy option, or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. Both work great in this dish.
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Extra Flavor Variations: For a richer sauce, you can add a little bit of parmesan cheese to the garlic butter sauce.
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Add Vegetables: You can sauté some vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus in the same pan after removing the chicken and add them to the dish for more flavor and texture.
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Serving Ideas: This recipe goes well over pasta (like spaghetti or fettuccine), rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option), or as a topping for mashed potatoes.
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are so simple yet so flavorful, and they make the perfect meal or appetizer when you need something quick and delicious. Enjoy!