Description

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Look no further! These Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are here to tantalize your taste buds and breathe new life into your dinner routine. Packed with zesty flavors and cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pat dry with paper towel, 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
½ medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions

Preparation: Start by patting dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel. This helps to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden brown color. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch in size.
Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, basil, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor.
Cooking: In a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so it’s important to give the chicken enough space. Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is mostly cooked through.
Garlic Infusion: Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant. The garlic adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
Finishing Touch: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken, stirring gently to combine. The fresh lemon juice not only adds a bright, citrusy flavor but also helps to deglaze the pan and create a delicious sauce.
Serve: Transfer the lemon garlic chicken bites to a serving platter and garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while still hot and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories: 303 kcal
Servings: 4 servings

Notes

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the lemon garlic chicken bites for a vibrant burst of color and added freshness.
Pair with Side Dishes: Serve these delectable chicken bites alongside your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Dipping Sauces: Elevate the flavor experience by offering a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, honey mustard, or even a simple yogurt garlic sauce on the side for dipping.
Presentation: Arrange the chicken bites on a platter and garnish with lemon wedges for a decorative touch. This not only adds visual appeal but also allows your guests to customize the dish according to their taste preferences.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
Freezing: Lemon garlic chicken bites can also be frozen for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken bites to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the chicken bites in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated to your liking.
Prevent Sogginess: To maintain the crispy texture of the chicken, reheat it in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave, as microwaving may result in a softer, less crispy exterior.