These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy and full of flavor, cooked to perfection with yummy asparagus on the side. It’s a wonderful combo that’s simple yet satisfying!
Honestly, when the garlic scent fills the kitchen, I can’t help but get hungry. The chicken is so tender; it practically melts in your mouth. Just pair it with some rice, and you’re set for a great meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. However, you can substitute thighs or even use tofu for a vegetarian option. Choose what you enjoy or have on hand!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus brings a nice crunch and flavor. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli would work well, too. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives great flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil instead. The dish will still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic has a robust flavor, but if you don’t have it, using garlic powder is an alternative. You can use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice bit of heat, but you could skip them or use black pepper for some subtle spice.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for a Perfectly Juicy Bite?
Getting that juicy chicken is all about how you cook it! Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet, which locks in moisture. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken until it’s golden on one side before flipping; this gives a nice crust. Remember, it’s done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
- After initial cooking, let the chicken rest for a minute or two. This helps keep it moist when you serve it.
- If using a meat thermometer, pull out the chicken once it hits 160°F. It will rise to the perfect 165°F while resting.
How Do I Cook Asparagus for Optimal Tenderness?
For tender asparagus, it’s best to sauté them quickly in butter. Start by trimming the tough ends, and make sure the heat is medium-high to get some color and a bit of char, which adds great flavor.
- Cook the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they are bright green and fork-tender.
- If they start to brown, that’s a good thing! It adds flavor, but be careful not to overcook them to avoid mushiness.
Enjoy making this flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Tender Asparagus dish! It’s useful for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Tender Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Great for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them with a generous amount of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. This gives your chicken a nice flavor base!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. This mixture will help the chicken get a lovely golden-brown color.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes, just until the underside is golden brown. Then, flip the chicken pieces over.
4. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Once flipped, add the minced garlic, the remaining Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
5. Cook the Asparagus:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the trimmed asparagus spears. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re tender yet still have a bit of a crunch. We want them to be bright green!
6. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the chicken bites to the skillet with the asparagus. Gently toss everything together to ensure the chicken and asparagus are coated in the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Let it warm through for another 1-2 minutes.
7. Final Touch:
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh finish, and garnish with lemon wedges for that extra zest!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the chicken and asparagus, and serve immediately. Enjoy this delicious and flavorful meal that combines savory garlic-buttered chicken with tender asparagus!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Tender Asparagus
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins require varying cooking times to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to prevent excess moisture from ruining the sauté. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of melted butter when reheating for extra moisture.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
These garlic butter chicken bites pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or quinoa. For a low-carb option, serve them alongside a fresh salad or over steamed cauliflower rice for a healthy twist!
