Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pat dry with paper towel, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 tablespoons minced garlic
½ medium lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces. Toss to evenly coat.
In a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Tilt the pan slightly to coat the base of the pan.
Once melted, add chicken to the pan in an even layer to ensure even cooking. (Do not overcrowd the pan.) Cook 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is mostly cooked through.
Add the remaining butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook one more minute, or until fragrant, and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Drizzle lemon juice over chicken and stir to combine. Serve immediately.
Here are some helpful tips to make your Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites even more delightful:
- Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken bites in a mixture of lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and your favorite herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley) for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with extra flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and freshly minced garlic for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will provide a brighter and more vibrant taste to your dish.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking. Seasoning the chicken well enhances its natural flavors and ensures a tasty bite.
- Add Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the marinade or sprinkle it over the cooked chicken bites just before serving. Lemon zest adds a burst of citrusy flavor and aroma without the acidity of lemon juice.
- Opt for Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts. Consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for your chicken bites for a more succulent and tender result.
- Crisp Up: For extra texture, coat the chicken bites in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before cooking. This will create a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside.
- Experiment with Herbs: Play around with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your chicken bites. Try adding fresh basil, oregano, or dill to the marinade for a unique twist.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve the lemon garlic chicken bites with a creamy dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, ranch, or garlic aioli, for added flavor and moisture.
- Grill or Roast: Consider grilling or roasting the chicken bites for a smoky flavor and charred exterior. Grilling also adds beautiful grill marks and enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished chicken bites with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and freshness. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor of the dish.
By incorporating these tips, you can take your Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites to the next level and create a truly delightful dish that everyone will love.
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites:
- Balance Flavors: Achieving the perfect balance of lemon and garlic flavors is key. Use fresh lemon juice and minced garlic for the best flavor, and adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences. Taste the marinade before adding the chicken to ensure it’s well-seasoned.
- Marinate Properly: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
- Tenderize the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, and real garlic for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice or pre-minced garlic, as they may lack freshness and flavor.
- Add Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the marinade for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Lemon zest contains essential oils that intensify the lemon flavor without adding acidity.
- Season Generously: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Don’t be afraid to season liberally, as chicken can benefit from bold flavors.
- Cooking Method: For juicy and flavorful chicken bites, consider grilling, pan-searing, or baking them instead of deep-frying. These methods allow the chicken to retain moisture and develop a golden crust.
- Don’t Overcook: Be mindful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked chicken bites to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures that each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Garnish the chicken bites with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or cilantro, for a vibrant finish. A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top can also enhance the citrus flavor.
By following these secrets, you’ll be able to create the perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites that are bursting with flavor and irresistibly delicious.
Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers related to Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken for maximum flavor?
- It’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. For best results, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
- While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that bottled lemon juice may lack the freshness and brightness of fresh lemon juice.
4. How can I prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking?
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, avoid overcooking it. Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center. Also, consider using chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and tend to stay juicy.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing or grilling it?
- Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven instead of pan-searing or grilling it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites for later?
- Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites for later. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites?
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like tzatziki, garlic aioli, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
8. Can I make Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites in advance for a party or gathering?
- Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply pan-sear, grill, or bake the chicken according to the recipe instructions.
9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
- The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature or cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
10. Can I adjust the amount of garlic in the recipe to suit my taste preferences? – Yes, you can adjust the amount of garlic in the marinade to suit your taste preferences. If you love garlic, you can add more; if you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less.