Garlic herbed chicken bites recipe
Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites are a flavorful, quick, and easy dish perfect for appetizers or a light meal. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a mix of minced garlic, fresh or dried herbs (like thyme, parsley, or rosemary), olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice for added brightness. Pan-seared to golden perfection, the chicken bites are juicy and aromatic, with a crispy exterior. Serve them with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a side salad for a complete meal. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for weeknights or entertaining guests.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for better searing.
Marinate
In a bowl, combine minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and toss chicken pieces to coat. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer (avoid overcrowding for even browning).
Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Finish with Herbs
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the cooked chicken.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Notes:
Chicken Cuts: You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier bites, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference (e.g., more chili flakes for heat or rosemary for a woodsy flavor).
Pan Choice: A non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan works best for an even sear.
Serving Ideas: Pair with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, a side of roasted vegetables, or on skewers for an appetizer.
Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 300mg (adjust based on salt use)
Tips for Success
Even Cooking: Cut chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking.
High Heat: Use medium-high heat to achieve a crisp exterior without overcooking.
Marination Time: While 15 minutes is sufficient, marinating for an hour in the fridge enhances flavor.
Make it Crispy: For extra texture, toss the chicken bites in a light coating of cornstarch before cooking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Enjoy your flavorful and tender Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites!