Here’s a fast, flavorful recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites — juicy, golden-brown chunks of chicken seared in a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or tossing into salads, wraps, or pasta!
🍋🧄 Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
Serves: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 10–12 min
Total Time: ~20–25 min
🧂 Ingredients:
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1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)
🍳 Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
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Toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
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Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter:
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In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.
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Melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in lemon juice and zest. Let it bubble for 30–60 seconds.
4. Toss & Serve:
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Return chicken to the pan and toss in the lemon garlic butter until coated.
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Cook for another minute to heat through.
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Garnish with parsley and extra lemon zest, if desired.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
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Over rice, couscous, or pasta
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With roasted veggies or a side salad
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In wraps or pita with tzatziki
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Meal-prep bowls with quinoa and greens
🔁 Variations:
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Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
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Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the sauce
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Herby: Add thyme or rosemary with the garlic
Would you like a sheet pan version, air fryer variation, or a honey garlic twist? Just let me know!
