These creamy garlic chicken bites are like little pieces of heaven! They are tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, tasty garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, who can resist a dish like this? I love serving them with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook up tender. You can also use thighs for a juicier flavor. If you’re short on time, precooked chicken works too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that vibrant taste. If you have garlic powder instead, you can use it, but fresh really shines here. If you’re sensitive to garlic, try using shallots for a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut milk, though that will change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is the way to go for the best taste. If Parmesan is unavailable, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan version can be used as substitutes.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Golden Chicken Bites?
Cooking chicken pieces to golden perfection is easier than it sounds, but you need to focus on two key things: proper seasoning and temperature.
- First, season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking. This enhances flavor directly in the chicken.
- Next, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. If the pan isn’t hot, the chicken will just steam instead of sear, missing that crispy texture.
- Cook in a single layer and avoid overcrowding; this allows for even browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
By following these simple tips, your chicken bites will come out beautifully golden and delicious!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs (e.g., oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, which includes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, season the chicken bites evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat all the pieces well so they are flavorful!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken bites in a single layer (be careful not to overcrowd the pan). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the Italian seasoning and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. It should start to thicken a little. Now is the time to add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and luscious—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Gently coat them in the creamy garlic sauce, making sure every piece is well covered. Let it all cook together for another 1-2 minutes to meld those wonderful flavors and make sure the chicken is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if you like, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This dish is best served warm and goes great with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or over pasta or rice to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as thighs may take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening. Keep in mind that the sauce will be lighter in texture, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat on the stovetop before serving. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to freshen up the sauce if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
