These Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in rich garlic butter and paired with fresh asparagus for a colorful dish!
This simple recipe makes weeknight cooking a breeze. I love how the buttery garlic aroma fills my kitchen—it’s like a warm hug! Just toss everything in one pan and enjoy the yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier bite. For a lighter option, consider swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives this dish a nice crunch and a pop of color. If asparagus isn’t in season, you can use green beans or broccoli instead—both will still pair well with the garlic butter.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter is a great substitute. Keep in mind, you’ll still get that rich flavor!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if needed. Adjust the amount to your taste—more garlic equals more flavor!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Bites?
Cooking chicken bites right is crucial. Here are my tips:
- Start on medium-high heat for a good sear. This locks in juices and flavor.
- Cut your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If your pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of brown.
- Check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
How Can I Cook Asparagus Just Right?
Perfectly cooked asparagus is tender but still crisp. Here are some pointers:
- Trim the tough ends of asparagus before cooking.
- Saute them for just enough time—5-6 minutes is perfect. They should maintain a bright green color.
- For even flavor, season while cooking, so the spices coat the asparagus well.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in no time! Happy cooking!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep and around 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes to get this meal ready on your table. Quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let it warm up for a minute—this step helps create a nice sear on the chicken.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Adding Garlic and Butter:
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cooking the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, the remaining Italian herbs, and red chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the asparagus for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s tender but still crisp.
5. Combining Chicken and Asparagus:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss everything together so the chicken and asparagus are well coated with the garlic butter and herbs. Let it cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to really bring the flavors together.
6. Finishing Touch:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness. This will not only add flavor but also beautify your dish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter chicken bites and asparagus right away, placing a few lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy this quick and delicious meal!
Now you’re all set to create a delightful dinner! Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp or firm tofu as alternatives. Both will take a similar cooking time but ensure shrimp is cooked until pink and opaque, while tofu should be browned on all sides for best texture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Asparagus?
No problem! You can substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly; green beans usually need about the same time as asparagus, while broccoli may take a couple of extra minutes to become tender.
Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and asparagus ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture and flavor when ready to serve.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
This dish is already low in carbs, but to make it even more so, simply skip any starchy side like rice or pasta. You can serve it with a fresh salad or enjoy it as is for a satisfying low-carb meal.
These tips will help you enjoy your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus even more! Happy cooking!
