Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

Are you in the mood for something zesty, garlicky, and utterly delicious? Look no further! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that packs a punch with its robust flavors yet is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Introducing Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites – a dish that promises to be a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pat dry and 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)

Instructions:

1. Season Chicken: Begin by combining oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will be the foundational flavor for your chicken bites. Once mixed, sprinkle it evenly over the chicken pieces and toss them well to ensure they are thoroughly coated with the seasoning.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Place the chicken in the skillet in an even layer and let it cook for 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip the pieces halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are golden brown and cooked evenly on all sides.
3. Add Flavor: Once the chicken is mostly cooked, add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic to the skillet. Allow it to cook for an additional minute. This step will not only complete the cooking process but also infuse the chicken with a rich, garlicky essence that is key to the dish’s depth of flavor. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
4. Finish: The final flourish involves drizzling lemon juice over the cooked chicken. Stir well to combine, ensuring each chicken bite is laced with the fresh, tangy juice. This adds a delightful zest that elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites hot, perhaps over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a crisp salad. They also pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple pasta.

Cooking Tips:

• Uniform Pieces: Ensure that your chicken pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to keep them from steaming instead of searing.
• Fresh Ingredients: While dried herbs work well, using fresh oregano and basil when available will enhance the flavor even more.

This recipe serves four and takes just about 22 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treating yourself after a long day, these Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are sure to delight.

Give this recipe a try and let the vibrant flavors bring a burst of joy to your dining table!

Print