Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are juicy, flavorful, and packed with zesty lemon and savory garlic. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are pan-seared to perfection, making them a quick and easy meal or appetizer. Serve them over rice, pasta, or with roasted vegetables for a delicious and healthy dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Juicy & Flavorful – A perfect balance of citrusy lemon and bold garlic.
• One-Pan Dish – Minimal cleanup, making it great for busy nights.
• Healthy & Protein-Packed – A great low-carb, high-protein option.
• Versatile – Serve as a main course, appetizer, or meal prep option.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest.

2. Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken bites in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

4. Serve & Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or roasted veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a rich sauce.
• Herb-Infused – Use fresh thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
• Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Honey Garlic Twist – Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts.

FAQs

What’s the best chicken to use?

Chicken breasts are lean, while thighs are juicier—both work well!

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used if necessary.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use all olive oil instead of butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge; reheat just before serving.

What side dishes go well with lemon garlic chicken bites?

Rice, quinoa, pasta, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I add veggies to the pan?

Yes! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook on medium-high heat and don’t overcook—chicken is done at 165°F.

What’s the best way to get a good sear?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just cook in batches to avoid steaming the chicken.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served over rice, with pasta, or as a protein-packed snack, these tender chicken bites will be a hit. Try them today for an easy and delicious meal in just 20 minutes!

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