I love making Garlic Butter Chicken Bites when I need something quick that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. There’s something magical about tender chicken coated in a crispy, herb-infused crust and finished with pools of garlicky butter. The first time I made this, my kids actually asked for seconds of chicken, which never happens in our house.
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Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
I always keep these simple ingredients stocked in my kitchen because this recipe has become a weekly staple. The combination of dried herbs creates incredible depth, while the butter and garlic finish takes everything to the next level.
- 2 to 3 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 inch thick)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme – I recommend Italian seasoning as a substitute if you don’t have all three herbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (regular refined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided) – My preference is European-style butter for richer flavor
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced – In my experience, fresh garlic makes all the difference here
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – I usually keep this on hand for garnish and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend using a heavy skillet for this recipe as it helps achieve that perfect golden crust without burning the butter.
Step 1: Preheat your 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. While heating, pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels on all sides. If your chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, gently pound them to even thickness for uniform cooking. This step ensures you get a crispy exterior instead of steamed chicken.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and thyme. Coat each whole chicken breast thoroughly with the flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
Step 3: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the hot skillet. Swirl them together until the butter melts and coats the pan evenly. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer with space between them.
Step 4: Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. Resist the urge to move them around. Flip and cook for 3 more minutes on the other side until equally golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley around the chicken. Cook for 90 seconds, using a spoon to repeatedly drizzle the melted garlic butter over the tops of the chicken until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
Step 6: Turn off the heat and transfer the chicken to a plate. Let it rest for 1-2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the top.
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These chicken bites pair beautifully with sides that complement the rich, garlicky flavors while adding freshness and texture to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized edges of roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide a slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken while adding important vitamins and fiber to your meal. Try our Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry for a similar veggie-forward approach.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up every drop of that incredible garlic butter sauce, creating a comforting combination that feels like a warm hug on your plate. For another garlic-butter favorite, check out our Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the butter and adds a refreshing element to balance the meal.
Garlic Pasta: Toss angel hair or fettuccine in a simple butter and Parmesan sauce to create an Italian-inspired feast that complements the herb-crusted chicken perfectly. Our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta takes this pairing to the next level.
Seasoned Rice: Whether you choose white, brown, or wild rice, a simple preparation with chicken broth and herbs provides a neutral base that lets the chicken shine while rounding out the meal. If you love chicken and rice combinations, try our Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
Keeping It Fresh
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly at 40°F or below. The garlic butter flavor actually intensifies overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, though the texture won’t be quite as crispy. Pro tip: slice cold leftovers and add them to salads or wraps for quick lunches.
These chicken bites are incredibly versatile beyond the dinner plate. I’ve served them over pasta, tucked them into sandwiches, and even chopped them for grain bowls throughout the week. They work beautifully in Chicken Caesar Sandwich or alongside Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for a double garlic feast.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay even more moist. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take an extra minute or two.
Why is my chicken dry even though I followed the recipe?
Overcooking is the main culprit. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F but no higher. Also, don’t skip the resting step as it allows juices to redistribute.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Cook the chicken completely, let it cool, and store it. The flavors develop even more overnight. Just reheat gently to avoid toughening the meat.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels on all sides. If chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, pound to even thickness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and thyme. Coat each whole chicken breast thoroughly with the flour mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the hot skillet. Swirl to combine and coat the pan evenly. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
- Place chicken breasts in the pan in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom. Flip and cook 3 more minutes on the other side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley around the chicken. Cook for 90 seconds until garlic is fragrant, using a spoon to repeatedly drizzle the melted garlic butter over the chicken.
- Turn off heat and transfer chicken to a plate. Let rest 1-2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle with remaining garlic butter from the pan and serve hot.
