Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a burst of savory and tangy flavors.
• Versatile: Can be served as a main course, appetizer, or added to salads and wraps.
• Healthy: Made with lean chicken breast and fresh ingredients, offering a nutritious meal option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• Juice of ½ medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried basil, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper.
   • Sprinkle this herb mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces, tossing to ensure they are well coated.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

   • In a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter.
   • Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
   • Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is mostly cooked through.

3. Add Garlic and Finish Cooking:

   • Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic.
   • Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Add Lemon Juice:

   • Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the chicken pieces. Stir to combine, ensuring each piece is coated with the lemony sauce.

5. Serve:

   • Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Kick:

   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy version.

2. Herb Substitutions:

   • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary to alter the flavor profile.

3. Citrus Twist:

   • Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.

4. Grilled Version:

   • Marinate the chicken pieces in the herb and lemon mixture, then grill them for a smoky flavor.

5. Creamy Sauce:

   • After cooking, stir in a splash of heavy cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to create a creamy lemon garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage:

  • Allow the chicken bites to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:

  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will provide a juicier result. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs offer a vibrant flavor, dried herbs can be substituted if fresh are unavailable. Use half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked chicken bites can also be stored and reheated as needed.

What sides pair well with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites?

These chicken bites pair well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken bites?

Yes, place the cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer can help ensure accuracy.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can enhance the dish. Sauté them alongside the chicken or separately as desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely, Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites can be prepared in advance and portioned for meals throughout the week.

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