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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are beautifully displayed as the featured image for this delicious recipe.

Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The secret is searing the chicken for a beautiful crust and then simmering it in a rich garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or as a tasty appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or tongs
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Create the Garlic Butter Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Thicken and Emulsify: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the lemon juice.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened further. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (and red pepper flakes, if desired). Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or as an appetizer.

Notes

For best results, sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing. The cornstarch helps to create a beautiful crust and thicken the sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.