These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy and full of flavor, paired perfectly with tender asparagus. Quick to make, they are a tasty weeknight dinner everyone will love!
I love how simple this dish is! Just mix garlic, butter, and chicken, then toss in asparagus. It’s like a hug on a plate! Plus, cleanup is a breeze. 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. For a different flavor, consider using thighs or even turkey breast. They’re just as tasty!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a crunch and vibrant color. If asparagus is out of season, you can opt for green beans or snap peas instead. They will work well with the garlic butter sauce too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes this dish pop! If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. But fresh is always better when you can get it!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt in your dish. If you’re watching your cholesterol, you could swap half the butter for olive oil, or use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Red Chili Flakes: They add a nice heat to the dish. If you prefer less spice, you can leave them out or use paprika for added flavor without the heat.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken moist while cooking can be tricky. First, make sure to cut it into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Start with high heat to get a nice sear on the outside, then reduce the heat if necessary to allow the insides to cook through.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if needed.
- Remember to let the chicken rest for a minute before serving, so the juices redistribute.
This way, your chicken bites will be juicy and flavorful every time! Pairing them with perfectly tender asparagus makes it a delicious meal.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Asparagus:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dish that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and your dried Italian herbs. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. When finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and red chili flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell the delicious garlic aroma—be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper as well. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still has a nice crispiness. Stir occasionally for even cooking!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss everything together to coat the chicken and asparagus in the garlic butter sauce. This step makes sure every bite is flavorful!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish and squeeze some fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to add lemon wedges on the side for extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus! It’s a meal that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for this Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The best method is to let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw it quickly by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus is unavailable, you can substitute it with green beans or snap peas, which will provide a nice crunch. Just adjust the cooking time slightly—green beans may take a couple of extra minutes to become tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and asparagus separately ahead of time. Just cook them, let them cool completely, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat everything in the skillet and add the garlic butter sauce again for the best flavor!
