Lemon and Garlic Chicken Bites

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• Lemon wedges
• Extra parsley
• Grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Start by patting the chicken dry using paper towels. This helps the chicken brown properly when cooking. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, roughly 1-inch pieces.
2. Place the chicken pieces into a mixing bowl. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare the garlic and lemon ingredients.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. A hot skillet is important because it helps create a golden crust on the chicken while sealing in the juices.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan because crowded chicken will steam instead of sear.
2. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on the first side without moving it too much. Once golden brown, flip the chicken pieces and continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes until fully cooked.
3. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt completely.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the lemon garlic sauce until every piece is evenly coated.
2. Cook for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors fully absorb into the chicken.
3. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320 · Protein: 33g · Fat: 18g · Carbohydrates: 3g · Fiber: 0g · Sugar: 1g · Sodium: 520mg