Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
Description
This dish is a vibrant, flavor-packed appetizer or light meal that balances savory and sweet. Tender chicken bites are marinated in garlic, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime, then pan-seared to golden perfection. They’re topped with a refreshing kiwi and strawberry salsa that adds a burst of sweetness, tang, and a touch of acidity. Perfect for entertaining, weeknight dinners, or even as a party appetizer.
Servings
4 (as an appetizer) or 2–3 (as a main dish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Marination Time
30 minutes
Cooking Time
12–15 minutes
Total Time
57–60 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for a mild smoky flavor)
For the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced
6–8 strawberries, hulled and diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for mild heat)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 tsp honey or agave syrup
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add the chicken bites and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
In a medium bowl, combine diced kiwi, strawberries, red onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
Add lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.
Gently toss to mix and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a teaspoon of olive oil if needed.
Add the chicken bites in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the chicken bites on a serving plate.
Spoon the kiwi strawberry salsa generously over the top.
Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with tortilla chips, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of ginger to the chicken marinade.
If you like more heat, keep the seeds in the jalapeño.
This salsa is also great with fish or shrimp!
Q&A / Common Questions
Q1: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A1: Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken bites on a parchment-lined tray for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q2: Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
A2: Yes, but prepare it no more than 4 hours in advance to keep the fruits fresh and vibrant.
Q3: What can I use if I don’t have kiwi?
A3: Mango or green grapes can be a sweet-tangy substitute for kiwi.
Q4: Can this dish be made gluten-free?
A4: Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any sauces or marinades if you tweak the recipe.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Keep chicken and salsa separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat chicken gently and add salsa fresh before serving.