Quick Benefits
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect solution for a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is packed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. These juicy chicken bites are ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even party appetizers — offering versatility without sacrificing taste.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
Optional: lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or dipping sauce of choice
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken:
In a small bowl, mix oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces with the herb blend until evenly coated. - Sear the chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and nearly cooked through. - Add garlic and finish:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. - Add lemon juice:
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together until the chicken is coated in the buttery, garlicky sauce. - Serve hot:
Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Health Benefits
This dish is as nutritious as it is delicious:
- Lean protein: Chicken breast is low in fat and high in protein to help build and maintain muscle.
- Low carb: With only 1g of carbohydrates per serving, it’s keto-friendly and great for low-carb lifestyles.
- Fresh herbs and lemon juice provide antioxidants and brighten flavor without added calories or sodium.
- Butter, in moderation, adds flavor and helps absorb fat-soluble nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
- For dinner: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles. Add a green vegetable like steamed broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
- For lunch: Add to a wrap, sandwich, or salad.
- For appetizers: Serve on skewers or toothpicks with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, tzatziki, or ranch.
- For meal prep: Store with quinoa, couscous, or roasted veggies in containers for easy lunches.
Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh and inviting finish!
Creative Variations
- Add heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier twist.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a silky sauce.
- Use thighs instead: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier, richer option.
- Go citrusy: Try lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a new flavor profile.
- Serve with pasta: Toss with cooked pasta and a bit of reserved pasta water to turn this into a garlic lemon pasta dish.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
Pro Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: This helps the chicken brown instead of steam. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use fresh lemon juice: It offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled.
- Cut chicken evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
- Finish with zest: Add a bit of lemon zest for extra citrus flavor just before serving.
- Use a meat thermometer: Chicken is done at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, but the texture won’t be quite the same. Just sauté the garlic in butter, add the chicken, and toss with lemon juice.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your butter and seasonings are certified gluten-free if needed.
Q: Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
A: Absolutely! Olive oil adds a different flavor and works well for dairy-free versions.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
A: You can use dried parsley (about 1 tsp), though fresh gives the best flavor and color.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! Use a larger skillet or cook in batches for best browning.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving – serves 4)
- Calories: 303 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: ~370mg
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are quick, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Tender chunks of chicken breast are seasoned with herbs, seared in butter, and infused with garlic and fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or meal prep, this dish delivers bold flavor in under 30 minutes using just a handful of simple ingredients.
- Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1/2 medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper. This blend of aromatic herbs is what gives the chicken its delightful flavor. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces and toss them well to ensure an even coat.
Next, heat a lovely 12-inch skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of the wonderful unsalted butter. Once that butter has melted beautifully, introduce the chicken to the pan, arranging it in a single layer. You want the chicken to sizzle and be happy. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through, until they are golden brown and mostly cooked through.
Now, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Let them mingle in the pan for just one more minute, releasing an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Finish by drizzling fresh lemon juice over the chicken, stirring it all together to combine the flavors. Serve immediately while it’s hot and bursting with flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: ~303 kcal per serving
