Introduction

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor, making them an ideal meal for busy weeknights or a quick, healthy option to impress guests. Tender chicken pieces are infused with the fresh zest of lemon, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs, resulting in juicy, golden-brown bites that pack a punch in every bite. Whether served on their own, paired with a side dish, or tossed into salads or wraps, these chicken bites are incredibly versatile.

The key to this recipe is achieving the perfect balance of flavors—the brightness of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the richness of butter. Not only are these chicken bites quick to prepare, but they also offer a protein-packed, low-carb option that’s both delicious and nutritious.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• 1 medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)

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Preparation

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Toss the chicken: Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the herb mixture over the chicken. Toss to coat all the pieces evenly, ensuring that every bite is well-seasoned.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the butter: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Let the butter fully melt, but be careful not to let it brown.
2. Cook the chicken: Once the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Ensure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded to allow even browning. Cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should turn golden brown on the outside and be nearly cooked through.

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Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

1. Melt the remaining butter: Once the chicken is almost done, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, it will mix with the chicken juices, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
2. Add the garlic: Stir in 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Let the garlic cook for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked.
3. Ensure the chicken is cooked: At this point, the chicken should have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check if needed, especially for thicker pieces.

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Step 4: Finish with Lemon

1. Drizzle the lemon juice: Squeeze the juice from 1 medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons) directly over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the tangy lemon flavor.
2. Remove from heat: Once the chicken is fully cooked and the lemon juice is incorporated, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Garnish: For added freshness and a pop of color, sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top of the chicken bites before serving.

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Cooking Notes

• Freshness of ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley not only add color but also elevate the taste of the dish.
• Cooking in batches: If you’re doubling the recipe or using a small skillet, consider cooking the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure the chicken gets evenly browned rather than steamed.

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Serving Suggestions

• With rice: Serve these Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites over a bed of fluffy white rice or lemon-flavored rice for a complete meal.
• On a salad: Add the chicken to a fresh green salad, topped with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese, and drizzle with extra lemon juice or a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• In wraps: For a quick and easy lunch, tuck the chicken bites into a warm pita or tortilla wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a yogurt-based sauce.
• With roasted vegetables: Pair these chicken bites with roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.

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Tips

• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the garlic.
• Use chicken thighs: While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
• Double the sauce: If you love a saucy dish, feel free to double the garlic, butter, and lemon juice mixture to drizzle over rice or veggies.
• Storing leftovers: Leftover chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

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Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

12 minutes

Total Time:

22 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 303 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg

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Conclusion

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are a quick and delicious option for any meal. With a perfect balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender chicken, this dish comes together in just under 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Serve them with your favorite side dish, or even use them in salads and wraps for an easy, versatile meal. The flavor-packed bites will leave you wanting more!

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