This dish features tender chicken bites cooked in rich garlic butter and paired with crunchy asparagus. It’s super quick and packed with flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Alternatively, tofu or chickpeas work well for a vegetarian version.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch, but if it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli are perfect substitutes. They’ll cook just as well and bring a different flavor to the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. However, you could use olive oil or a dairy-free butter for a lighter option. Ghee is also a great choice for a rich flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its intense flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove, but fresh will always beat powdered!
Red Pepper Flakes: If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper flakes. You can also use fresh chili or even a pinch of black pepper for some heat.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but keeping it juicy is simple with a few tips. First, don’t overcook it! Use a meat thermometer: 165°F (75°C) is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken on medium-high heat, and resist the urge to flip it too often; this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
With these techniques in mind, your chicken bites will turn out tender and delicious every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
Flavor Boosters:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Asparagus:
Start by washing your asparagus under cool water and trimming off the tough ends. This helps ensure that you get the best-tasting bites. Set your asparagus aside for now.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add your chicken bites to the pan. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Making the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt before adding the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook these for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Sautéing the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Sauté the asparagus while stirring occasionally until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Now, return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in that glorious garlic butter sauce. Let it heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Your chicken bites with asparagus are now ready to serve!
7. Serving It Up:
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top just before eating. This little touch adds a fresh zing!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus! It’s a dish full of color and taste, perfect for any night of the week.
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely beforehand for even cooking. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and asparagus ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat everything together before serving. Just make sure not to overcook when reheating!
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans, broccoli, or zucchini are fantastic alternatives! Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different vegetables may require slightly different sauté times.
