Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

BY

January 11, 2026

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites in skillet with lemon butter garlic sauce

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are juicy, pan-seared pieces of chicken coated in a bright lemon-garlic butter sauce that hits every flavor note savory, tangy, and slightly rich. Perfect for busy weeknights or light meal prep, this dish brings restaurant-level flavor to your table in under 30 minutes.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

  • Ready in under 25 minutes
  • Crispy outside, juicy inside
  • Bright, fresh lemon flavor with a hint of garlic
  • Perfect with rice, pasta, or salad
  • Meal-prep friendly and family-approved

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional swaps:
– Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
– Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and cook until golden brown (about 6–8 minutes).
  4. Lower heat; add butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
  5. Pour in lemon juice and zest; toss to coat evenly.
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bites over rice, quinoa, or a bed of sautéed greens. They also pair beautifully with roasted potatoes or fresh pasta. For a light touch, serve with a Greek-style salad and crusty bread.

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Add honey for a subtle sweetness.
  • Try fresh dill or oregano for an herby twist.
  • Serve with tzatziki or aioli for dipping.

FAQs Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

1. How do you make Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites crispy?
Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding. Patting the chicken dry before cooking ensures a perfect sear.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

3. What sauces pair well with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites?
Tzatziki, garlic aioli, or a drizzle of hot honey complement these bites beautifully.

4. How do you store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep them tender.

If you love quick, flavorful chicken recipes, try our One Pot Thai Coconut Curry Chicken for a creamy, spiced meal that’s just as easy. Or, savor the sticky sweetness of Garlic Honey Chicken Thighs another reader favorite bursting with flavor. For extra cooking inspiration, check out Allrecipes’ Chicken Dinner Ideas and BBC Good Food’s Healthy Chicken Collection for endless ways to keep dinner exciting and wholesome.

Conclusion

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are your new go-to for quick, flavorful dinners. With golden edges, a buttery lemon glaze, and that irresistible garlic aroma, they turn any night into a special one.

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites in skillet with lemon butter garlic sauce

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Quick, zesty, and golden Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites in a buttery lemon sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken breast, bite-sized

3 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon (zest and juice)

2 tbsp butter

½ tsp paprika

Salt and pepper

Fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry and season.

2. Heat oil; cook until golden.

3. Add butter and garlic.

4. Pour in lemon juice and zest.

5. Toss to coat and garnish.

Notes

Serve with rice or salad. Store leftovers up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 310
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 36g

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