These easy grilled chicken bites are juicy and packed with flavor! Tossed in a creamy garlic sauce, they make for a delicious meal or snack that everyone will love.
Who doesn’t adore a tasty bite-sized treat? I can’t help but dip these in extra sauce—I mean, who could resist that creamy goodness? Perfect for a quick dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless chicken thighs work well too. They tend to be juicier!
Olive Oil: This helps with grilling and flavor. You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil as substitutes if you prefer something milder or more heat-resistant.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. Regular paprika or cayenne for a kick can be used as alternatives. Feel free to play with other spices like cumin or chili powder!
Mayonnaise: It creates the creamy base for the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It has a similar texture and tangy flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you don’t have it, plain yogurt works just as well!
How Do I Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites?
The key to tender chicken bites is marinating them. This helps to infuse flavor and moisture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the olive oil and spices thoroughly before adding the chicken. This ensures every piece is well-coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to a few hours for more flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill! Give each piece space to get that nice char.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy, safe chicken.
Follow these tips, and your grilled chicken bites will be the star of your meal!
Easy Grilled Chicken Bites With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons water or milk (to thin sauce as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to cook. Total time is around 30-35 minutes, making it a quick and flavorful option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper together. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl and toss well to ensure every piece is coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the grill.
2. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates or pan. This will help the chicken develop a nice char without tearing.
3. Grill the Chicken Bites:
Once hot, place the marinated chicken bites on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. Look for a nicely charred exterior and ensure the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C).
4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, make the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add water or milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and drizzle or toss it with the creamy garlic sauce while it’s still warm. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken bites warm, either alone, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy the extra creamy garlic sauce on the side for dipping!
Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your juicy, tender grilled chicken bites with that luscious, garlicky sauce!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Bites With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, and feel free to thin it out with a bit of water or milk if it thickens up in the fridge.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
These chicken bites pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with extra sauce for dipping. Feel free to get creative with sides based on your preferences!
