Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced

• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)

• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional but recommended)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1–2 tbsp water or chicken broth (if needed)

🔪 Preparation

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towel.

2. In a bowl, mix chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and olive oil.

3. Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes (optional but adds flavor).

🍳 Cooking Method (Stovetop – Best Flavor)

1. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (do not overcrowd).

3. Cook for 3–4 minutes without stirring to get a golden crust.

4. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).

5. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce

6. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.

7. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds (do not burn).

8. Add lemon juice and zest. Stir well.

9. If sauce is too strong, add 1–2 tbsp water or broth.

10. Return chicken to pan and toss for 1–2 minutes to coat well.

11. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

🔥 Air Fryer Option

1. Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F).

2. Air fry chicken for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

3. Toss cooked chicken in prepared lemon garlic butter sauce.

🍽 Serving Ideas

• Serve over rice or buttered noodles

• Add to wraps or tacos

• Pair with roasted vegetables

• Great as an appetizer with toothpicks

💡 Tips for Extra Juicy Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd the pan.

• Use chicken thighs for more tenderness.

• Add a small spoon of honey for a sweet-lemon twist.