These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are juicy pieces of chicken cooked to perfection, paired with tasty asparagus. It’s a quick meal that’s full of yummy flavor!
I love how simple this dish is to whip up on busy nights. Just sear the chicken, add garlic, and throw in the asparagus. Dinner is ready before you know it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you want, you can substitute with thighs for more flavor since they tend to stay juicier. Even leftover rotisserie chicken can work if you’re in a hurry!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is ideal here, but if it’s not available, you can substitute with green beans or broccoli. Both will still pair wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great taste. If you have garlic powder on hand, you could use 1 teaspoon instead, though it won’t be as strong or fresh-tasting.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish. If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil for the whole recipe instead, although the butter gives it a rich flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken just right is key for juicy bites! Here are some tips:
- Cut your chicken into evenly sized pieces. This helps them cook uniformly. Aim for about 1-inch cubes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. This allows the chicken to brown nicely rather than steam.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- If you’re unsure, cut a piece open to check – it should be opaque and the juices run clear.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Asparagus:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Asparagus:
Begin by trimming the tough ends off the asparagus and giving them a good rinse under cold water. This will help ensure they are nice and fresh. Once done, set them aside while you start cooking the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer. Be sure to season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian herbs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just enough to become fragrant, but make sure it doesn’t turn brown as that can make it bitter.
4. Add the Asparagus:
Now, add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, the rest of the Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes if you want a kick. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and well coated with the garlic butter.
5. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Once the asparagus is cooked, bring the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet. Stir everything together gently to combine and allow it to heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and squeeze some lemon wedges over everything. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially for shrimp and tofu, which can cook faster.
What Can I Use Instead of Asparagus?
If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or broccoli make great substitutes! They’ll still pair nicely with the garlic butter sauce and bring their own delicious flavors to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free version of this dish without sacrificing flavor!
