Name: 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 oz (1 ¼ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried basil; ½ tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp salt; Freshly ground pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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I absolutely adore sharing my favorite quick and flavorful dishes, and the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe is one I always come back to when I want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. This dish combines tender chicken bites with a rich garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with fresh herbs and a touch of paprika, all cooked in a single skillet. It’s the kind of recipe that hits those flavor notes perfectly while being quick enough for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends.

Why You’ll Love This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe

What really excites me about this recipe is the incredible flavor packed into such an effortless dish. The chicken pieces turn out so juicy and tender, coated in a buttery garlic sauce enhanced by bright parsley and just the right sprinkle of paprika and herbs. I love how the herbs and garlic combine to create a fragrant, savory aroma that instantly feels comforting and special.

I also appreciate how simple the preparation is. Everything comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether I’m making it for a quick lunch, a weeknight family dinner, or even a small gathering, it feels like the perfect balance of easy and impressive. Plus, the 15-minute cook time is a total game-changer when you’re craving something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side photos. On the left, there is a clear glass bowl with small raw pieces of light pink chicken mixed with white flour and sprinkled with black pepper and other spices on top. On the right, there is a black pan filled with browned, cooked chicken pieces, showing a crispy golden-brown texture with some black and white seasoning spots on each piece. Both images are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is, yet each item plays a vital role in building up the dish’s vibrant flavor and appealing texture. From the chicken’s golden crust to the buttery, garlicky coating, every ingredient is simple but essential.

Chicken breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tenderness.
All-purpose flour: Just a light dusting helps create that delicious crust and thickens the buttery sauce slightly.
Dried oregano, basil, and sweet paprika: These herbs and spices add a warm, aromatic depth and subtle smokiness that I adore.
Salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
Olive oil: For a bit of healthy fat and to help crisp up the chicken.
Unsalted butter: The star of the sauce, adding richness and that luscious garlic butter flavor.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the entire dish with vibrant flavor and aroma.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley finishes the dish with a fresh pop of color and brightness.

Directions

Step 1: Start by drying the chicken breasts thoroughly with a paper towel, then cut them into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken brown nicely and cook evenly.

Step 2: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl, then sprinkle the all-purpose flour, dried basil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over them. Toss everything gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the flour and spices, which will build flavor and texture.

Step 3: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has fully melted and the oil is hot—look for a slight shimmer—carefully add the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden crust.

Step 4: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes so it can get nicely browned on one side. Then flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes to finish cooking the other side.

Step 5: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the minced garlic, and the freshly chopped parsley to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another 1 minute or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

Step 6: Serve immediately while hot, either on its own or alongside your favorite side such as fluffy rice, pasta, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a meal to savor with friends. Preparation time is minimal — just about 5 minutes to cut and season the chicken. Cooking takes around 10 minutes, so your total time from start to finish is approximately 15 minutes, just as the name promises. There’s no resting time needed, which keeps things quick and convenient for busy days.

How to Serve This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe

A close-up view of many small pieces of cooked chicken in a black pan, each piece showing a golden brown color with some darker char marks, covered with bits of chopped green herbs scattered over them. The chicken pieces have a slightly crispy texture with tiny specks of seasoning visible. A wooden spatula is placed on the right side of the pan, partially under the chicken pieces, showing a smooth light brown surface. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving, I love pairing these tender chicken bites with sides that complement their rich, garlicky flavor. Creamy mashed potatoes or a garlic-infused rice pilaf work wonderfully to soak up the buttery sauce. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brings a bright contrast and balance to the savory bites.

Presentation is simple but elegant — I often serve the chicken bites right from the skillet topped with a little extra chopped parsley for a pop of vibrant green. If you want to impress guests, adding a wedge of lemon on the side not only looks charming but also adds a zesty kick when squeezed on top. The chicken is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to fully appreciate the buttery garlic sauce and tender texture.

For drinks, I’m a big fan of pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the buttery richness without overpowering it. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with a splash of lime or a lightly sweetened iced tea also make for refreshing companions. This meal is a great fit for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a quick dish to impress last-minute guests.

Variations

I love how flexible this recipe is, allowing you to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to keep the coating light and crispy. It’s a straightforward switch without losing any of the deliciousness.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a gentle heat or swap the dried herbs for fresh ones like thyme or rosemary for a slightly different aromatic profile. I’ve even transformed this dish by cooking the chicken in coconut oil and adding a squeeze of fresh lime for a subtle tropical twist.

For those looking to make it vegan, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets, and use vegan butter or olive oil in place of traditional butter. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using cauliflower, to achieve a tender yet slightly crisp texture. You could also try baking the chicken bites in the oven if you prefer a hands-off method, though I find the skillet gives the best crispy results and the most flavorful pan sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the chicken bites fresh and juicy. They’ll typically stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the chicken to room temperature before sealing the container to maintain the sauce’s texture and avoid condensation.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible if you want to keep it longer, but I find the texture of the cooked chicken stays best when refrigerated rather than frozen. If you do freeze, place the chicken bites in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep well frozen for up to 2 months. To defrost, transfer them to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

The best way to reheat garlic butter chicken bites and keep them tasting fresh is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a little butter or olive oil to keep the sauce silky and stir frequently to warm evenly. Avoid the microwave if possible, since it can dry out the chicken and alter the texture. You want the chicken hot but still tender and juicy, with the garlic butter sauce creamy and inviting.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add a little extra juiciness and flavor. Just keep in mind that they may take a minute or two longer to cook through because of the slightly higher fat content and thickness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep it dairy-free. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious thanks to the garlic and herbs.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken pieces should be opaque all the way through with no pink in the center. Cooking times can vary slightly based on your pan and stove, so cutting the pieces uniformly helps. You can also use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can chop and season the chicken in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for a few hours. I don’t recommend coating and cooking too far ahead because the flour coating works best fresh. Cooking right before serving keeps the bites crispy and fresh.

What sides would you recommend for a complete meal?

I love serving these chicken bites alongside buttery mashed potatoes, garlic rice, or even a simple pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. Vegetables like roasted asparagus or a crisp salad add wonderful texture and freshness to the plate.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick yet thoroughly delicious dish to become a staple in your recipe collection, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Easy One-Pan Recipe. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for so many occasions. I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to meals when time is short but you want something special on your plate.