Imagine popping warm, juicy chicken bites into your mouth, each piece coated in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce that practically melts in your mouth. These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are unbelievably easy to make and seriously addictive – prepare to become a kitchen hero! I promise this recipe will become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Talk Chicken: Choosing & Prepping
Okay, before we dive into the step-by-step, let’s chat chicken. I always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re quick to cook and easy to cube. You could technically use chicken thighs, but the cooking time might need adjusting, and the flavor profile will be a little different – still delicious, though! Make sure you pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better and ensures a nice sear.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get Started: Prep the Chicken
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is nicely coated.
Cook the Chicken: Searing to Perfection
- Heat a large skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook in batches.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: The Magic Happens Here!
- In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean!), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! That’s a kitchen sin.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the fresh parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Combine & Serve: Garlic Butter Heaven
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
- Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy every single bite!
Secret Sauce Success: Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Okay, let’s be real – sometimes sauces can be tricky. If your garlic butter sauce is too thin, simmer it for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. The key is to watch it closely and adjust as needed. Also, don’t be shy with the garlic! It’s the star of the show. But, trust me, burnt garlic can ruin everything, so keep an eye on it while it’s cooking.
Variations & Twists: Customize Your Bites
Want to get a little creative? Here are some fun variations you can try. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra cheesiness. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. A little bit of Dijon mustard can also add a nice tang to the sauce. If you enjoy a bit of spice, try my Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites – they have a kick!
Serving Suggestions: From Appetizer to Main Course
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a party appetizer with toothpicks, or as a main course over rice or pasta. They’re also fantastic in wraps or salads. For a complete meal, pair them with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Or, if you’re craving comfort food, serve them with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
Make it a Meal: Complete the Feast
If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes to add to your repertoire, you absolutely MUST try my Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. It’s incredibly tender and flavorful, and the sauce is out of this world! Another great option is Marry Me Chicken Pasta – a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. And for a super easy baked option, don’t miss my Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Storage & Reheating: Keep the Deliciousness Going
Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave them in short intervals until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, or they’ll become dry. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet while reheating to keep them moist.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: Elevate Your Pasta Night
Have you ever thought about combining the deliciousness of these chicken bites with pasta? My Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a must-try! The creamy, garlicky sauce coats every strand of pasta perfectly, creating a truly unforgettable meal. And for a crispy, cheesy twist, try my Oven-baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Chicken Recipe
There you have it – my ultimate guide to making the most amazing Garlic Butter Chicken Bites! I know you’ll love how easy and delicious this recipe is. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a flavor explosion in every bite. Happy cooking, my friend!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for these garlic butter chicken bites?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but the cooking time might need adjusting, and the flavor profile will be a little different. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their quick cooking time and ease of cubing.
My garlic butter sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
If your garlic butter sauce is too thin, simmer it for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Watch it closely and adjust as needed.
How should I serve these garlic butter chicken bites?
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are versatile. Serve them as a party appetizer, as a main course over rice or pasta, or in wraps or salads. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
How long can I store leftover garlic butter chicken bites?
Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Ultimate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is nicely coated.
- Heat a large skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook in batches.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean!), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the fresh parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
- Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.