There’s something so satisfying about a quick, flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, and this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites recipe is just that. As a busy mom, I know how hectic evenings can get, and finding time to prepare a delicious dinner can feel like a challenge. This recipe has become one of my go-to’s on weeknights when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take too much time. Plus, who can resist the irresistible combo of lemon, garlic, and butter?
Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe a little bit to suit my family’s taste. The kids love it when I add a little extra lemon zest, and my husband always asks for more garlic. I remember the first time I made this dish, it was a huge hit at our family dinner, and ever since, it’s been a staple in our weekly meal rotation. The chicken turns out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, and I love that I can pair it with just about anything – rice, pasta, or even a light salad.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner for friends or just looking for a quick family meal, these chicken bites are always a hit. It’s one of those recipes where you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right in the comfort of your own home, and trust me, your family will thank you for it!
Making Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian herb mix
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Lemon slices for garnish
Directions
Dry the chicken cubes using a paper towel and lay them out on a flat surface.
Sprinkle the chicken with flour, salt, pepper, and the Italian herb mix. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil to the pan. Once melted, swirl the pan to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Place the chicken in the skillet, ensuring they’re in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.
Once the chicken is cooked through, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, along with the chopped garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir the mixture, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Serve the chicken bites immediately, garnished with lemon slices if desired.
Storing Suggestion
Leftover chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Cooking Tips
If you prefer more sauce, double the amount of lemon juice and butter towards the end of cooking. For extra crunch, you can dredge the chicken in a light coating of cornstarch before frying.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even over a bed of buttery rice. A glass of crisp white wine also complements the bright lemon flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. You can also swap parsley for fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, try adding fresh cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices to the skillet alongside the chicken. During the colder months, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a warming kick.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains butter, which may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. Substitute with a dairy-free margarine or use extra olive oil to make the dish dairy-free.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and tend to be even juicier than breasts. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Keeping the heat at medium-high and flipping the pieces halfway through will ensure they cook evenly and stay moist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and coat it with flour and seasonings ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, up to 24 hours in advance.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
While the cooked chicken bites can be frozen, they’re best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a skillet for the best texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This recipe is versatile and can be served with rice, pasta, or even a light salad. For added flavor, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
How can I add more lemon flavor?
If you’re a fan of strong lemon flavor, add some lemon zest along with the juice for an extra punch of citrus. You can also garnish with additional lemon slices when serving.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts boneless and skinless, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour all-purpose
- 1 teaspoon salt kosher
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon Italian herbs mix
- 4 cloves garlic chopped finely
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 3 tablespoons butter split into 2 parts
- 1 tablespoon parsley fresh, chopped
- lemon slices optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel and place them on a large surface.
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces with the flour, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken becomes golden and crispy on all sides.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, followed by the minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Stir everything together, ensuring to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the pan. Let it cook for another minute until the chicken is fully done.
- Serve promptly with optional lemon slices for extra zest.
