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Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.5 from 14 reviews

Delicious Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites featuring tender chicken cubes marinated in garlic, olive oil, Italian herbs, and paprika, then cooked to golden perfection. Optionally finished with Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or snack.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Finishing Touches

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for added moisture during cooking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the boneless, skinless chicken breasts under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
  2. Mince the Garlic: Mince 4 cloves of garlic finely using a garlic press or knife for maximum flavor infusion.
  3. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend all ingredients.
  4. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade bowl. Toss to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; longer marinating up to overnight enhances flavor.
  5. Cook the Chicken (Pan-Frying): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add marinated chicken evenly in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature. If dry or sticking, add a splash of chicken broth to keep moist.
  6. Cook the Chicken (Baking – Optional): Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread marinated chicken evenly without crowding. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through at 165°F internal temperature.
  7. Cook the Chicken (Air Frying – Optional): Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes. Arrange chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through to 165°F.
  8. Finish with Parmesan and Lemon: Remove cooked chicken from heat or oven/air fryer. Immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over hot chicken to melt slightly. Optionally, drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve as appetizer, main dish, salad topping, or snack as desired.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes; overnight marinating provides deeper flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
  • If pan-frying, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming the chicken.
  • Parmesan cheese adds savory richness; omit for a dairy-free option.
  • Lemon juice is optional but adds a nice bright contrast to the herbs and garlic.
  • Substitute chicken broth with water if preferred or omit for a drier texture.
  • Use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

Find it online: https://piesbyolivia.com/garlic-herbed-chicken-bites-recipe/