Looking for a quick and mouthwatering meal that will impress your family or guests? Look no further than these tantalizing Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites! Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and the aromatic essence of garlic, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat, these chicken bites are bound to become a favorite in your household. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dinner game with this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of chicken breast, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic (minced), the juice of 1 lemon, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized cubes. Make sure the pieces are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- While the chicken is marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom.
- After the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook in batches if your skillet isn't large enough.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will help keep the chicken juicy.
- Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve the lemon garlic chicken bites warm, either on their own or with a side of your choice, such as rice, salad, or vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Uniform Size: When cubing the chicken breast, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This will help each bite achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Marinate for Flavor: Don’t skip the marination step! Even a short 10-minute soak in the lemon and garlic mixture will infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour in the refrigerator can enhance the taste even further.
- High Heat Cooking: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This will give you that delicious sear and help lock in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature, causing the chicken to steam rather than brown.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve these chicken bites with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
