These easy garlic butter chicken bites are super tasty and come together in a flash! Pairing them with fresh asparagus makes for a colorful and healthy meal.
You’ll love how the garlic and butter work their magic on the chicken. It’s so good, even the picky eaters will ask for seconds! 😂 I often serve this with rice to soak up the yummy sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can substitute with turkey breast or even thighs for a juicier option if preferred.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If you can’t find it, consider using green beans or broccoli as good substitutes, but adjust cooking times accordingly!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but start with a smaller amount, as the flavor is stronger in powdered form.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could also use the same amount of olive oil instead.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are great here, but you can mix and match your favorite herbs. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also add wonderful flavor!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Golden and Cooked Through?
The key to golden chicken is medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken nicely. Here are some steps to ensure perfect chicken bites:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken, which helps to get a nice brown color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in batches to keep the heat consistent.
- Stir occasionally, but let them sit for a moment to develop that golden crust!
- Check for doneness by slicing a piece to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
Following these steps will help you achieve that delicious crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, tough ends trimmed
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to make—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken Bites:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and your dried herbs. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be golden and no longer pink in the middle. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, it’s time to melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cooking the Asparagus:
Add the asparagus to the skillet with the garlic butter. Season it with some salt and pepper, and if you like a little kick, add the red pepper flakes. Sauté the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s tender while still being crisp and bright green.
4. Bring It All Together:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss everything together gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just to heat the chicken through and meld all the lovely flavors!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over your delicious dish for a pop of color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish. Enjoy every bite!
Try these tasty garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus. They’re sure to become a new favorite!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. You can also thaw it quickly by placing the sealed bag in cold water for about an hour. Pat the chicken dry before cooking for the best results!
Can I Substitute Asparagus with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! If asparagus isn’t available, you can substitute it with green beans, broccoli, or even cauliflower. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary; for example, broccoli may take a minute or two longer than asparagus to become tender but still crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam and keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. The dish will still be delicious and flavorful!
