15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe is one of those magical dishes that comes together in a snap. With juicy bites of chicken coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, this recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly simple to whip up on a busy weeknight. You can almost feel the garlic aroma enticing you as you sizzle the chicken, and the buttery notes make it irresistible.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe

15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe

I first stumbled across this quick and easy recipe when I needed to make dinner in a hurry for friends who popped by unexpectedly. The one-pan aspect was a lifesaver—I didn’t want to deal with a mound of dishes! The moment I served these garlic butter chicken bites, they became an instant favorite, and I couldn’t wait to share them. You’ll adore how fast they come together and how everyone inevitably goes for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy evenings!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter elevates the chicken to a whole new level.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These golden-brown bites are as gorgeous as they are delicious.
Flexible Serving: Whether as a main dish or a party appetizer, they fit any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily made gluten-free by substituting the flour!

Ingredients You’ll Need

20 oz (1 ¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Opt for fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps create a slight crust on the chicken, making it more delightful. If gluten-free, use a gluten-free baking blend.
½ tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery flavor. You can replace it with Italian seasoning if you like.
½ tsp dried basil: Alongside oregano, it brings a hint of sweet flavor. Fresh basil would work, too, but use more of it!
½ tsp sweet paprika: It lends a beautiful color and a mild sweetness. You could substitute it with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for a rustic touch.
Freshly ground pepper to taste: For that kick of spice! Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used for frying the chicken, it adds richness. Any neutral oil would work, but olive oil gives a lovely flavor.
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided: This is key for that garlic butter sauce—don’t skimp out on the butter!
3 garlic cloves, minced: The star of the flavor show! Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic scent.
2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped: Adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also use green onions for a different flavor profile.

How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites | Easy One-Pan Recipe

Prepare the chicken: Begin by drying the 20 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely, then cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. This size cooks evenly and quickly.

Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp dried basil, ½ tsp sweet paprika, ½ tsp salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Ensure every piece is well coated in this flavorful mixture—this step is crucial for that irresistible crust!

Heat the skillet: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, drizzle in 1 tbsp olive oil and add 1 tbsp of unsalted butter. When the butter melts and sizzles, it’s time to add the seasoned chicken to the pan.

Cook the chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Allow them to cook without moving them for about 3 minutes, letting them develop a golden-brown crust. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until they are a lovely golden color and cooked through.

Add flavor: To the skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tbsp chopped parsley. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s done when the garlic is fragrant and the chicken is fully cooked.

Serve: Serve these delicious bites immediately while they’re hot and succulent. They pair wonderfully with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), let the chicken bites cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, pack them in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air; they will last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but refreshing with a splash of water while reheating will help retain moisture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the skillet; giving the chicken space allows it to brown properly.
If you want extra buttery flavor, add more unsalted butter at the end for a richer sauce.
Make sure your chicken pieces are all similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
For those looking to enhance the flavor, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish just before serving.
If you’re making this for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using two pans; it cooks much better that way!

These scrumptious garlic butter chicken bites are a convenience you won’t want to miss. They deliver fantastic flavor, and there’s something about that mix of garlic and butter that brings a sense of comfort. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these bites. Feel free to try different herbs or even toss in some vegetables!

There’s a very real chance these will become a go-to in your kitchen, as they have in mine. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or simply when you crave something delicious without a fuss, this easy one-pan recipe is a definite win. Enjoy cooking and cherish the amazing flavors!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a great substitute, as they are more flavorful and tend to stay juicy during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.

What can I serve with these chicken bites?

These bites are incredibly versatile! They pair perfectly with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad. You could also slide them into a sandwich or wrap for a lunch option.

How do I make this dish spicy?

To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic. Alternatively, you could marinate the chicken pieces in your favorite hot sauce before cooking to infuse that spicy goodness.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled! Just ensure your skillet can accommodate all the chicken without overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches for the perfect golden crisp.