These creamy garlic chicken bites are a tasty treat that’s easy to whip up! Tender chicken pieces swimming in a rich garlic sauce make this dish a real winner at the dinner table.
I’m not kidding when I say you could dip anything in that sauce and it would taste amazing! Serve them with a side of veggies or some bread to soak up every last drop. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for this dish. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you don’t have chicken, you could use turkey or even shrimp!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic. I find that fresh really packs a punch, though!
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can swap it for half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but it won’t be as creamy. I usually stick with heavy cream for that delightful texture!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully in the sauce. If you’re out, use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. The flavor might change a bit, but it will still taste great.
How Do I Ensure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Burnt garlic can ruin your dish, so here’s how to avoid that situation:
- Sauté garlic on medium heat, not high. You’re aiming for fragrant, not burnt!
- Add the garlic after the chicken has been browned and removed. This way, it gets just enough time to cook without burning.
- If you notice it starting to brown too fast, add a splash of broth right away to cool things down. It’ll enhance the flavor too!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to impress guests. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 15-20 minutes cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the chicken pieces, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping it until it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat a little and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring often until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds lots of flavor! Allow it to simmer for a minute, then lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat the pieces in that creamy garlic sauce. Let it heat through for a couple more minutes.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped parsley, then taste the sauce. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
6. Serve Enjoy:
Serve your lovely creamy garlic chicken bites warm, paired with sides like steamed vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or some crusty bread to soak up every drop of the amazing sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a bit more flavor to the dish. Just make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that using yogurt may change the sauce’s consistency, so whisk it in gently after removing it from the heat to avoid curdling.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free option like coconut cream or almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Nutritional yeast can also be a great cheese substitute for adding flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
