These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus are quick and full of flavor! Tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with crispy asparagus make a perfect meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love anything with garlic and butter? I love how easy this dish is! Just cook everything in one pan, and you’ve got a tasty dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is perfect for this recipe because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you’re in the mood for a change, try using chicken thighs for a richer taste, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking the chicken. If you prefer, avocado oil works well too and has a higher smoke point. This means it can handle higher temperatures without burning.
Garlic: This recipe calls for fresh garlic, which brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a good substitute in a pinch—just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each garlic clove.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and color. If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli are great alternatives that will still complement the dish nicely.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add optional heat. If you like spice but don’t have red pepper flakes, consider using a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squirt of sriracha instead!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it. The key is to ensure it’s cooked evenly without drying it out. Here’s how:
- Cut your chicken into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the chicken space to brown and cook through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, look for clear juices when cutting into the chicken.
Following these steps helps keep your chicken juicy and delicious!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For The Asparagus:
- 1 lb (450 g) asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes to cook the chicken and asparagus, and then just a few minutes to get everything ready to serve. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast. Sprinkle it with paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous! Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes until it’s browned and cooked all the way through. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds, stirring gently until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it brown—burnt garlic isn’t tasty!
3. Add the Asparagus:
Now, toss in the trimmed asparagus into the skillet. Mix it well to coat in that delicious garlic butter. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp, which means it should still have a bit of bite to it.
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Once the asparagus is ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so that the chicken gets heated through, which should only take another 1-2 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your yummy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw the chicken first! You can thaw frozen chicken by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method: place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus on hand, broccoli or green beans are great substitutes! Simply adjust the cooking time slightly; broccoli may take a few more minutes to become tender, while green beans typically cook in the same time frame as asparagus.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like extra heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or stir in some chopped jalapeños. For a different flavor, you might try a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper as you cook!
