These tender, juicy chunks of chicken breast are lightly coated in seasoning, pan-seared until golden, and finished in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. Made entirely in one skillet, this simple recipe is ideal for hectic evenings but impressive enough to serve guests. Enjoy them as a main dish or offer them as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh garlic
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Pat the chicken dry using paper towels, then slice it into bite-sized cubes, about 1 inch each.
Transfer the pieces to a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with flour, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the seasoned flour mixture.
Place a large skillet (cast iron works especially well) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter. When the butter has melted and the pan is hot, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.
Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes so a golden crust can develop. Turn the pieces over and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
How to Tell When the Chicken Is Done
The outside should be nicely browned, and the inside should no longer show any pink. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Ways to Boost the Flavor
For extra brightness, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken after cooking. Adding more chopped parsley will enhance freshness. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or finish with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Storing and Reheating
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or warm in the microwave until heated through.
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the chicken: Dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Season the chicken: Place them in a bowl and sprinkle the flour, basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper on top. Toss until all the pieces are well covered with the flour and herbs.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once the oil is hot and the butter melts, add the chicken pieces in one layer.
- Cook the chicken: Let them cook without moving them, for about 3 minutes. Flip them over, and cook for 2 minutes more.
- Add flavor: Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Cook for one more minute until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: serve immediately while hot, alone or with your choice of sides (rice, pasta, or a fresh salad).
