This dish features tender chicken bites cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with bright and crisp asparagus. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any night!
I can’t get enough of the buttery goodness! Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s ready in a snap? Try serving it over rice or with a nice crusty bread—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: This is the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works great too. For a vegetarian option, try swapping in tofu or chickpeas.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is ideal for its crunch and flavor. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli can be solid substitutes. Just be sure to adjust cooking time as needed.
Unsalted Butter: I love using real butter for the rich flavor, but if you’re dairy-free, you can opt for a plant-based butter or olive oil. This will change the taste but keep the dish delicious!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to this recipe, but garlic powder could work in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon. Adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
The chicken should be juicy and flavorful, so here’s how to nail it! First, wait until the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps it sear beautifully and keeps it from becoming tough.
- Season the chicken well; the herbs and spices make a big difference!
- Cook over medium-high heat and avoid crowding the pan; this helps achieve a nice brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer: chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before serving.
Easy 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 Flavor:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Quick and easy for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Make sure your pan is nice and hot before adding the chicken to get that perfect sear!
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oil heats up, season your chicken bites with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs. This added flavor will make your chicken taste delicious!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan and cook them for about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté this for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—don’t let it brown too much!
5. Cook the Asparagus:
Now add the trimmed asparagus to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the asparagus is tender and bright green—this should take around 4-6 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently until it’s all mixed and warmed through.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your garlic butter chicken bites and asparagus promptly, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Just squeeze some lemon juice over the dish before enjoying!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter chicken bites with perfectly sautéed asparagus!
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 best to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan!
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli are great alternatives! Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different veggies may require more or less time to become tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring everything is heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You could also add some diced jalapeños or drizzle with a hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
