Incorporating fresh garlic notably boosts both the scent and flavor, adding to the dish's allure. These tasty boneless chicken breasts are chopped into bite-sized pieces and sautéed in a luscious sauce made from garlic butter, white wine, fresh lemon, and a blend of simple seasonings. Whether served as a simple dinner alongside mashed potatoes or as a sophisticated appetizer with toothpicks, this dish is sure to impress! Let's get straight to the point.
Garlic Butter Chicken Breast Bites
½ teaspoon each: onion powder, basil, oregano
¼ teaspoon each: pepper, paprika, mustard powder
Chicken Breast
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast
Salt, to taste
¾ cup dry white winesee notes
¾ cup chicken broth
¼ teaspoon seasoned salt
4 tablespoons salted butter
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
4 sprigs fresh thyme
tablespoons fresh parsley minced
Fresh lemon slices, for serving
Combine the seasonings for the chicken and set aside. Measure out remaining ingredients before beginning.
Cover the chicken with plastic wrap and gently tenderize each side with a meat mallet for more tender results.
Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat the surface completely dry. (This is key for a golden sear.) Sprinkle with salt, I use up to 1 ¼ teaspoons, but season to taste. Sprinkle with the combined seasoning mixture and toss to coat.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches, turning to sear on all sides, for about 5 minutes total, or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Turn the heat off and add the wine, chicken broth, and seasoned salt. Set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom and sides of the skillet, this will incorporate the brown fond into the sauce, making it more flavorful. Simmer until reduced by half and you can no longer smell alcohol, about 8-10 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the butter, garlic, and thyme. Simmer gently for 1-2 minutes.
Add the chicken back to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Add the parsley and toss to combine. Allow it to heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.
Squeeze 1-2 fresh lemon slices over the dish. Serve with toothpicks or roasted potatoes and veggies.
Ultimate Guide to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Recipe That Shines
Dive into the world of chicken bites, a versatile and delicious dish that brings together an array of aromatic spices and cooking techniques to delight any palate. Whether you're preparing a quick meal or looking for something special for dinner tonight, this garlic butter chicken bites recipe promises great flavor and a satisfying experience.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: A Recipe Overview
Transform simple boneless skinless chicken breasts into an extraordinary dish with this easy recipe. These garlic butter chicken bites are made by pan-searing chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil and a rich blend of spices including garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. The inclusion of freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a great recipe for any occasion.
Whether you're using chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this recipe adapts beautifully, allowing for variations such as oven baked chicken bites or even air fryer chicken bites for those who love a crispy chicken texture without the deep frying.
Versatility of Chicken Bites
This chicken bites recipe is not just about great taste but also about versatility. You can choose to make garlic butter chicken bites for a richer flavor, or keep it simple with just some basic seasonings and olive oil for a lighter version. The dish can be adapted using diced chicken or chicken chunks, depending on your preference for texture.
For those interested in meal prep, these chicken bites are an excellent choice. They can be cooked in a batch and stored in an airtight container, making them a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week. Serve them with cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
To start, if using boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Season them generously with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. For those who like their food with an extra kick, adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish.
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Once hot, add chicken pieces to the skillet. The key to getting them nicely golden brown is not to overcrowd the skillet, allowing each piece to sear rather than steam. Cook the chicken until it reaches the desired internal temperature, then set aside on a plate.
In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil and toss in chopped onion and perhaps some red bell pepper for color and texture. Sauté these until they are soft and translucent. Next, deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, which are packed with flavor.
For the garlic butter part of the recipe, add freshly minced garlic (rather than jarred) and a generous amount of butter to the pan. Let this simmer until the garlic is fragrant. Then, reintroduce the chicken to the pan, toss to evenly coat with the garlic butter mixture, and let everything heat through together.
Serving and Storing
This dish is best served immediately, perhaps with a side of green beans, cherry tomatoes, or even just some toothpicks as appetizers for a gathering. If you have leftover chicken bites, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, which should take about half an hour from the fridge or slightly longer if from frozen.
Nutritional Profile
This recipe is not only about great taste but also offers a good balance of monounsaturated fats and a reasonable amount of saturated fat, making it a healthier choice for a family meal. The chicken itself is a good source of protein, and when paired with sides like cauliflower rice or green beans, it becomes a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts and Recipe Review
This garlic butter chicken bites recipe is a sure winner whether you're looking for an easy recipe to spice up your dinner routine or need a reliable, delicious option for meal prep. Its versatility and great flavor profile make it a staple in any kitchen. Don't forget to leave a review if you try this recipe—I’d love to hear your feedback and see those 5 stars!
Recipe for a Family of Five
Creating a delicious and satisfying meal for a family of five doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe for garlic butter chicken bites with white wine and lemon is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it a perfect dinner option. Below is a detailed guide on how to prepare this dish for a family of five, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys a delightful and fulfilling meal.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This amount serves five comfortably, allowing for hearty portions.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken bites.
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika: This adds a slight smokiness to the dish, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper: Optional, for a bit of heat.
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil: For cooking the chicken in batches.
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 10 cloves of fresh garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to creating a vibrant and aromatic sauce.
- 1 cup of dry white wine: Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which adds acidity and brightness to the dish.
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley: For garnish and a fresh burst of flavor.
- Optional side dishes: Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or a simple salad.
Equipment:
- Large skillet: Preferably cast iron for even cooking.
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into approximately 1-inch cubes. This size is ideal for ensuring that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly while remaining juicy. Place the cut chicken in a large bowl, and season it with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add half of the chicken in a single layer. It's crucial not to overcrowd the skillet, as this allows the chicken to sear rather than steam, developing a nicely golden-brown crust. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken, adding more olive oil as needed.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
After cooking the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add a lot of flavors. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Add the lemon juice and half of the chopped parsley, and toss everything together to combine. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter or distribute them among individual plates. Sprinkle the remaining parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the garlic butter chicken bites with your choice of side dishes, such as creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or a crisp salad.
Tips for a Successful Meal:
- Prep Ahead: Chop the chicken and prepare the seasoning mix ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother.
- Keep Warm: If serving in batches, keep the cooked chicken warm in an oven set at a low temperature while you finish cooking the rest.
- Adjust Seasonings: Tailor the amount of cayenne pepper and garlic to suit your family's tastes. More garlic can be added for a stronger flavor, while less cayenne will reduce the heat for younger palates.
- Wine Substitutes: If you prefer not to cook with wine, substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth and a squeeze of extra lemon for acidity.
This garlic butter chicken bites recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to please a family of five, making dinner time a special occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend meal, providing both comfort and satisfaction to your family table.
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