These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are packed with flavor and super quick to make! Juicy chicken coated in garlic butter pairs perfectly with tender asparagus.
I adore how simple this dish is. You toss everything in the pan and enjoy a tasty meal without much fuss. Plus, it makes for a fancy dinner on a busy night! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can also be a nice substitute. For a vegetarian twist, try using tofu or chickpeas instead!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here, but if you can’t find it, green beans or broccoli would make good alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on their texture.
Butter: I like using unsalted butter to control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based butter or olive oil. Each will lend a different flavor, but they both work well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this dish amazing flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder; about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon will do, but fresh is always best!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken bites can be tricky, but there are a few tips to keep them juicy:
- Start with evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcook! As soon as they turn golden brown and no longer pink inside, take them off the heat.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before serving. This helps the juices redistribute.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Asparagus?
To get perfectly tender asparagus while keeping its crunch, follow these steps:
- Cook it over medium-high heat; this helps it cook quickly without becoming mushy.
- Keep an eye on the color! Once it turns bright green, it’s almost done.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness and flavor.
These tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying dish every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time approximately 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Pan:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will get the pan nice and hot so that the chicken cooks perfectly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Asparagus:
Next, add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for some extra flavor. Cook the asparagus for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally. You want it to be tender but still have a little crunch!
5. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the chicken back to the pan with the asparagus. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the butter melts and coats everything nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with chopped parsley and serve it hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. The fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully!
Enjoy your quick, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites with tender asparagus! This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw it is in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quicker option. Always pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you can’t find asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or snap peas work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they’re tender but still crisp!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To spice things up, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
