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Golden garlic butter chicken bites in a cast iron skillet topped with fresh parsley

10-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Juicy, golden chicken bites tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce; all made in one skillet in about 10 minutes. A quick, high-protein weeknight dinner perfect for beginners, families and meal prep.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs 700 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾–1 inch pieces (or boneless thighs)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4-5 garlic cloves freshly minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice optional

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet (stainless steel or cast iron preferred)
  • 1 sharp knife
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken into even ¾-1 inch pieces and pat completely dry with paper towels. After that toss with paprika, salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter stops foaming.
  3. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in two batches if needed). Now, sear undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden, then flip and cook 2 minutes more.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Now, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic. Then stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant and glossy.
  5. Confirm the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat, rest 1 minute, then sprinkle with parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve.

Notes

Nutrition values are estimates.
Chicken thighs substitute 1:1 and are more forgiving for beginners. Store leftovers airtight in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze with a little sauce for up to 3 months. And reheat to 165°F.