Lemon and Garlic Chicken Bites are a delightful combination of tangy citrus and savory garlic that come together to create a flavorful and tender dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Packed with protein and infused with zesty flavors, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether served on its own, with a side of rice, or atop a salad, these chicken bites are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the mixture and whisk everything together to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Reserve the marinade for later use.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on one side without stirring to achieve a nice sear. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F).
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken pieces. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and infuse the chicken with additional flavor.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the glaze, remove it from the heat. Transfer the chicken bites to a serving plate.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
- Serve the lemon and garlic chicken bites warm as a main dish with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or as a flavorful topping for salads or wraps.
This Lemon and Garlic Chicken Bites recipe is versatile, quick to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. The bold, tangy flavors of lemon combined with the rich aroma of garlic create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Try it today and enjoy a new family favorite!