Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are tender, flavorful pieces of chicken breast seasoned with Italian herbs and smoked paprika, sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy skillet recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 2 large breasts)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika can be used)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cooking Fats and Flavor
- 3 Tablespoons butter (divided use, can use unsalted or salted)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (if cloves are large, adjust quantity accordingly)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Heat the Fat: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon butter along with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat up.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until fragrant.
- Toss Chicken in Garlic Butter: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat the pieces thoroughly with the garlic butter sauce. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, but regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
- To avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken in batches for the best sear and even cooking.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference and size of garlic cloves.
- You can use either salted or unsalted butter depending on your salt preference.
- For a lower fat option, reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons and increase olive oil slightly.
