Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of tangy, savory, and juicy flavors. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic blend, then pan-seared to perfection, creating a crispy golden exterior with a tender and juicy inside. Ideal for a quick dinner, appetizer, or meal prep, this dish is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients while delivering maximum taste. Whether served with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, these flavorful chicken bites will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken pieces with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This ensures they sear properly, creating a crisp, golden crust.
- Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook for 3–4 minutes without stirring to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the pieces and cook for another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked and crispy on the outside.
- Add Butter: Reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the melted butter, enhancing the flavor and adding richness.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cooked chicken for a burst of freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Best Results:
- Use fresh garlic and lemon for the most vibrant flavor.
- If you prefer extra crispy chicken bites, lightly coat them with cornstarch before cooking.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa.
- If grilling, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally.