If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, these garlic butter chicken bites are sure to impress! Juicy, tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, making each bite irresistible. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is packed with flavor and can be ready in no time. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 tbsp butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 pieces) contains about 350 calories, 25g protein, 25g fat, and 2g carbohydrates. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until fully coated.
- Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Spoon any remaining garlic butter mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Additionally, olive oil can replace butter for a lighter option, and fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones for enhanced flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These garlic butter chicken bites pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. They also make a fantastic addition to a party platter alongside various dipping sauces.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These bites can be frozen, but it’s best to reheat from frozen in the oven rather than the microwave.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; always check the internal temperature.
- Not allowing the butter to cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients can create a greasy texture.
- Skipping the seasoning will result in bland bites, so season generously.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish; stick to the recommended amount.
- Not spacing out the chicken on the baking sheet can cause uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied taste.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun appetizer.
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before preparing this dish to ensure even cooking.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead. Additionally, serving with more vegetables can increase the dish’s nutritional value.
What dipping sauces work well with these bites?
Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the chicken.
Can I make these chicken bites in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in the garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Just bake them right before serving for the best results.
What should I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
Garlic butter chicken bites are a quick and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal or gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different flavors!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tbsp butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until fully coated.
- Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Spoon any remaining garlic butter mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
