These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect fast and easy one-pan dinner. With a rich garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of thyme, this quick dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying meal in a hurry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can have perfectly cooked chicken bites smothered in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. The chicken is juicy and tender, and the buttery garlic sauce is so delicious, you’ll want to dip everything into it! With minimal ingredients and effort, this meal will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
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1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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3 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
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Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
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Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm!
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Variations
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Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
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Add Cheese: For an extra rich flavor, top the chicken with melted parmesan cheese or mozzarella during the last minute of cooking.
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Herb Swap: Try using fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook than breasts.
2. Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
For best results, use thawed chicken. If using frozen chicken, be sure to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free butter or olive oil in place of regular butter to make this dish dairy-free.
4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
5. Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?
Yes, fresh thyme can be substituted for dried thyme. Use about three times as much fresh thyme as dried (e.g., 3 teaspoons fresh thyme for 1 teaspoon dried).
6. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add more chili flakes, sriracha sauce, or hot sauce to give it a spicier kick!
7. What can I serve with these garlic butter chicken bites?
These chicken bites pair perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve them with a side salad for a lighter meal.
8. Can I add a sauce to this recipe?
Yes, you can add a creamy sauce, like a garlic parmesan sauce, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist.
9. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in this recipe as well. They’ll add a bit more richness and flavor, and you may need to cook them a little longer.
10. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and cook when ready.
Conclusion
These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll love how tender and juicy the chicken turns out. The garlic butter sauce adds richness and depth, making it the perfect dish to serve with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal in no time!
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15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect quick and easy dinner. With a rich garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of thyme, this one-pan meal is ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying dish in a hurry!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
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Add minced garlic and dried thyme, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.
Notes
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Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
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For a spicy version, stir in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
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Top the chicken with melted parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
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You can swap dried thyme for fresh thyme (use about three times as much fresh).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
