These tender garlic butter chicken bites paired with fresh asparagus make for a quick and tasty meal. The garlic butter adds a rich flavor kids and adults both love!
I love how easy this dish is to whip up on busy nights. Just sauté the chicken and asparagus together, and dinner is served! Plus, who can resist anything with garlic butter? 🧄💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re going for a healthier option, chicken thighs can work too, just adjust cooking time for tenderness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but fresh provides a much richer taste. I usually love to add a little extra if you’re a garlic fan!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If it’s out of season or unavailable, green beans or broccoli can serve as good substitutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter works best to control the saltiness. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter. Just note, it may not give the same creamy richness.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemons, a splash of vinegar can add a nice tang, too!
How Do You Get Juicy and Flavored Chicken Bites?
To achieve the juiciest chicken bites, start by patting the chicken pieces dry. This helps them sear properly instead of steaming. Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Heat the olive oil well before adding the chicken to ensure a great sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This avoids steaming and helps get that golden color!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (75°C).
Finally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite tender and flavorful!
Tender Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish and optional squeeze of juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Chicken:
First, pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear when cooked. Season the pieces generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear The Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken bites in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 4-6 minutes to achieve a lovely golden color. Then, flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make The Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now, in the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil (if using), and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat!). Stir everything together so the garlic butter has all those delicious flavors combined.
5. Cook The Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for about 4-6 minutes, turning the asparagus occasionally until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp.
6. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Once the asparagus is ready, return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss everything together so the chicken and asparagus are well coated with the garlic butter sauce.
7. Add Freshness:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and asparagus for a pop of color and flavor. If you want, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten all the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate up your chicken bites and asparagus, garnishing with extra parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful meal!
This simple skillet recipe combines juicy chicken and tender asparagus, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator or use the microwave’s defrost setting before cooking. Pat it dry and follow the recipe as usual for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time so they remain crisp and tender. Both options will taste fantastic in the garlic butter sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and asparagus ahead of time. Season the chicken and chop vegetables, then store in the fridge. Cook as directed when you’re ready to eat.