These Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus are a tasty and simple meal. Juicy chicken cooked in garlic butter paired with crisp asparagus makes for a delightful dish!
What’s great is how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights. I love serving it over rice, so I can soak up that yummy butter sauce. Trust me, it’s a winner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and cook quickly. If you want a budget-friendly option, chicken thighs work well too. They add more flavor and stay juicy!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch. If it’s out of season, you can replace it with green beans or broccoli for a similar texture. Frozen asparagus can also do the trick in a pinch!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the dish a rich taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use olive oil instead. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil will work nicely, too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts the flavor. If you’re out of fresh, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be a good stand-in. Just remember, fresh has that robust flavor that’s hard to beat!
How Do I Keep the Chicken Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s simple with a few tips! Start by cutting the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking. This helps ensure that no pieces get overcooked while others are underdone.
- Preheat your skillet before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the outside quickly, locking in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space. This promotes even cooking and browning.
- Cut one piece to check for doneness. It should be white and juice should run clear, not pink.
Following these tips will give you tender, juicy chicken bites every time!
Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Asparagus:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or mixed Italian herbs)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Finishing:
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious lunch in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
First, grab a large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. This will make sure the chicken gets a nice sear.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the skillet heats up, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. You can mix this in a bowl to ensure the seasoning is even.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Sauté the Asparagus:
Next, toss in the trimmed asparagus. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for about 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender yet still has a nice crunch to it.
6. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Give it a good stir to coat everything with that lovely garlic butter.
7. Add Lemon Juice:
Now, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken and asparagus. Stir gently to combine all the flavors together.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!
Enjoy your quick, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites paired with vibrant asparagus! It’s a delightful dish that you’ll love making again and again!
FAQ for Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Pat it dry with paper towels to reduce moisture when cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, feel free to substitute it with green beans, broccoli, or snap peas. These vegetables will cook similarly and maintain a nice crunch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and asparagus on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and chop the asparagus ahead of time! However, it’s best to cook the dish fresh to keep the vegetables crisp and the chicken juicy. If needed, you can also store the cooked dish for later enjoyment!
