This recipe for garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus is a quick and tasty weeknight meal! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked with tender asparagus in a buttery, flavorful sauce.
It’s a meal that comes together fast, so I can spend more time enjoying dinner instead of cooking. Plus, who doesn’t love buttery garlic? It makes everything better! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness, but breasts work too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey, or plant-based chicken alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds great texture. If it’s out of season, you can substitute green beans, broccoli, or zucchini, which will still taste great in this dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without added salt. For a lighter touch, use olive oil, or if you’re dairy-free, go for vegan butter to achieve a similar richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the best flavor. If you run out, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use half the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get Chicken Bites Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken bites just right can be tricky. Follow these steps for tasty, tender pieces:
- Ensure your chicken is dry before seasoning for a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This helps achieve a golden crust.
- Use medium-high heat for browning, then reduce heat if you notice it cooking too fast.
- Check doneness after about 8 minutes total cooking time. The internal temp should reach 165°F (75°C).
With these tips, your chicken bites will turn out succulent every time! Enjoy your cooking experience! 😊
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Asparagus:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced or wedges (for garnish and optional squeezing over finished dish)
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs for flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of butter (and olive oil if you choose to use it) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the chicken bites in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown on one side. Then, flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are fully cooked and nicely browned. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—just make sure not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Asparagus:
Now, add the trimmed asparagus spears to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian herbs. Cook the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and bright green.
5. Combine and Toss:
Once the asparagus is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring it’s well coated in the garlic butter sauce, and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat, and garnish your delicious dish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices or wedges for a fresh touch. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your dish for an extra flavor boost!
Enjoy your flavorful, buttery garlic chicken bites paired perfectly with tender asparagus!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Asparagus?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of asparagus, you can substitute it with green beans, broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetable you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. The flavor will still be rich and delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Flavor to the Chicken?
Definitely! Feel free to marinate the chicken in the Italian herbs, lemon juice, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking for an extra flavor kick. You could also sprinkle it with some grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a savory addition!
