These creamy garlic chicken bites are mini delights packed with flavor! Tender chicken pieces swim in a rich, garlicky sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Honestly, who can resist garlic? 😂 I love serving these with crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Trust me, you’ll want seconds—maybe thirds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’d like a different protein, use thighs or even shrimp for a seafood twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punch of flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but start with a smaller amount—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and thickness may vary.
Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor beautifully. If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning is a good all-in-one substitute. Don’t stress—just use what you have!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a lovely depth. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the cream!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. Here’s how to nail that:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Moisture creates steam, which prevents browning.
- Heat the oil until shimmering before adding the chicken. This helps to get that golden crust!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give each piece space. If necessary, cook in batches to allow proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken bites that shine in the delicious creamy garlic sauce! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh if available), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or rosemary, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry using paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on all sides for flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Remember, if your skillet is small, work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
With the skillet still on medium heat, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant and you can almost taste it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now pour in the chicken broth, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet—those are the goodies! Stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, mix it in at this stage for that extra creaminess.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken bites back into the skillet and coat them beautifully in the creamy garlic sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the chicken warms up and soaks up those delicious flavors. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or rosemary over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy garlic chicken bites with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over fluffy rice!
This recipe yields a plate full of tender, golden chicken bites immersed in a rich and fragrant garlic cream sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest—enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and juicy, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may require a minute or two longer to cook through. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Thicken the Sauce If It’s Too Thin?
If the sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, you can create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and let it cook for another minute or two until it thickens up nicely!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free version, look for coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative; just adjust the flavor as it could alter the final taste slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Cook everything as instructed, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove—adding a splash of broth or cream can help bring back that creamy texture.