These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are full of flavor and paired with tender asparagus. It’s a quick and yummy meal that brings the taste of the kitchen right to your dinner table!
Who doesn’t love a tasty dish that comes together in no time? I enjoy whipping these up for busy nights. Plus, the garlic butter makes everything smell amazing while cooking! 🍗💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you want an alternative, chicken thighs work great too—they’re a bit juicier!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for a nice crunch. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli can serve as tasty substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a handy shortcut—about 1/2 teaspoon per clove—but fresh is always a winner in my book.
Butter: Unsalted butter creates a rich flavor, but you could swap it with ghee or a plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Herbs: While dried thyme or rosemary add depth, you can skip them if they’re not on hand. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also brighten the dish nicely!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, it’s essential to not overcook it. Here’s how:
- Cut the chicken into uniformly-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat, which helps get a nice browning without drying it out.
- Remove the chicken once it’s no longer pink in the center—typically around 5-7 minutes. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after you take it off the heat!
These tips will help you achieve perfectly juicy chicken bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 15 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. This will help to sear the chicken nicely.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken bites to the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, and let it melt. When it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring until fragrant but careful not to let it burn.
5. Cook the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season with some salt, pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. If you’re using herbs, add those too! Cook the asparagus, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still retains a crisp texture, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the cooked chicken bites back to the pan, tossing everything together with the buttery garlic sauce to evenly coat the chicken and asparagus.
7. Add Fresh Flavors:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish to add a fresh zing. Then, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus immediately while hot! This dish goes wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Enjoy your flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method: place the chicken in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use Instead of Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli are great alternatives! Just keep in mind that they might require slightly different cooking times, so check for tenderness as you cook.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The dish will still maintain its delicious flavor!
