Description
Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? These Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are juicy, zesty, and ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan chicken recipe is packed with savory herbs, fresh lemon, and buttery garlic. It pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – divided
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- Juice of ½ lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small mixing bowl, combine the dried oregano, basil, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this herb mixture evenly over the chicken pieces and toss to coat each piece.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely, tilting the pan to coat the base. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for the best sear.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden
Cook the chicken for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is mostly cooked through (internal temperature should be around 150–155°F at this stage).
Step 4: Add Garlic and Finish Cooking
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the chicken bites. Stir to combine, coating all pieces evenly with the lemony-garlic butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over rice or mashed potatoes. Pair with sautéed vegetables, quinoa, or a crisp garden salad. These chicken bites also make a great filling for wraps and meal-prep bowls.
Pro Tips
Patting the chicken dry helps it sear better and prevents steaming. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Add red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in 20 minutes. One-pan cleanup. Naturally gluten-free. Family-friendly and keto-friendly.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F internally.
Q2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and season it in advance. Cook just before serving for best flavor.
Q3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Q4. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes! Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms after searing the chicken. Cook until tender before adding garlic and lemon juice.
Q5. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Q6. Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when adding the garlic for a spicy kick.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 4 servings)
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Conclusion
This Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. With juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon, it delivers bold flavors in a simple, fuss-free dish. Serve it with your favorite sides or in wraps for a meal the whole family will love.