Mediterranean Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Mediterranean Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, golden-seared chicken cubes infused with aromatic garlic, herbs, and rich butter. This dish brings together the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with the indulgence of a buttery pan sauce, perfect for serving with rice, roasted vegetables, or pita. Quick, simple, and full of zesty flavor, this recipe makes a fantastic weeknight meal or appetizer that’s low-carb and naturally gluten-free.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional for Serving:
Lemon wedges
Crumbled feta cheese
Sliced cherry tomatoes
Cooked couscous, rice, or warm pita
Tzatziki or hummus
Instructions
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes if time allows.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not burnt.
Finish the Dish:
Return chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter. Squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle fresh parsley. Stir well and cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve:
Plate immediately with your choice of sides. Garnish with optional toppings like lemon wedges and crumbled feta.
Tips for Success
Uniform Sizing: Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches to ensure browning instead of steaming.
Garlic Watch: Don’t let garlic burn; it becomes bitter. Cook just until golden.
Add Heat: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Meal Prep: Store cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Variations
Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy garlic sauce.
Veggie Add-Ins: Add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts with the garlic butter.
Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for different proteins.
Herb Upgrade: Add fresh basil or dill in addition to parsley for a burst of herbal freshness.
Grilled Version: Marinate and skewer chicken bites, then grill for a smoky alternative.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just trim excess fat and cook until no longer pink.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Cook and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or lemon juice.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into keto and low-carb diets when served without starchy sides.
Q: Can I bake the chicken bites?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add garlic butter at the end.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Without Sides)
Calories: 310
Protein: 34g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 280mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the perfect fusion of flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. With only a few pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, this dish delivers mouthwatering results in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving them over grains, tucked in wraps, or solo with a dip, these buttery bites are bound to be a staple in your rotation. Try them once, and they’ll be a repeat favorite.