Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are bright, savory, and irresistibly juicy—perfect as a quick dinner, protein-packed snack, or crowd-pleasing appetizer. Tender chicken pieces are seared until golden, then tossed in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce that’s fresh, bold, and comforting all at once. Simple ingredients, fast cooking, and big flavor make this a go-to you’ll keep on repeat.
Yield and Timing
Serves 4 people.
Prep time 10 minutes · Cook time 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or lemon slices
Preparation
Season the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon-garlic butter. Cook for 1–2 minutes more, just to warm through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites hot with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. They’re also great as an appetizer with toothpicks and a light dipping sauce on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken tender.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick searing locks in juiciness, while butter softens the acidity of lemon for a perfectly balanced sauce. Garlic adds depth without overpowering, letting the fresh citrus shine. Fast, flexible, and full of flavor—these chicken bites deliver every time.
Enjoy !!!!
