I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, and they are a delightful treat for any occasion! The juicy chicken pieces, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, make for a mouthwatering dish. Paired with savory Parmesan linguine, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, these bites will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Side Dish: The creamy Parmesan linguine complements the chicken beautifully, allowing for endless variations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken breast, this dish provides a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Colander
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop rich flavors in the garlic butter sauce.
• Pot: Use this for boiling the linguine to get that perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: Quickly drains the pasta while keeping it intact for easy serving.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken pieces and serving pasta without mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Linguine:

• 8 oz linguine
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the linguine.
2. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet.
3. Season with Italian seasoning, and cook until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add Flavor

1. Pour in the lemon juice and zest over the cooked chicken.
2. Stir well to coat each piece in the rich garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

1. Add cooked linguine directly into the skillet with chicken.
2. Toss gently to combine everything evenly while adding Parmesan cheese.
3. Cook for an additional minute until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites! Don’t forget to share your thoughts on this recipe—thank you for supporting my blog!

How to Serve I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Serving your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich chicken bites.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken bites over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with chicken bites, topped with avocado and fresh cilantro.

On Skewers

• Thread the chicken bites onto skewers for a fun, finger-food option at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Perfecting this dish can elevate it even further. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice will provide more vibrant flavors than their dried counterparts.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches allows for better browning and ensures each piece gets that wonderful garlic butter flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!

• Let it rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices for a more succulent bite.

Best Side Dishes for I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites beautifully. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping in the garlic butter sauce; it’s a classic choice that everyone loves.

2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the chicken.

3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a nutritious companion.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can soak up any extra sauce, creating a delightful hearty meal.

5. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and pairs well with lemon flavors.

6. Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs makes for a quick and easy side that complements the dish nicely.

7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness, making it an ideal contrast to the soft chicken bites.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich meal, adding a sweet finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry bites. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Without proper seasoning, the flavor may fall flat. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Not Letting the Butter Melt Completely: If the butter isn’t melted, it won’t coat the chicken properly. Allow it to fully melt before adding garlic and chicken.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Skipping the Lemon Zest: The zest adds a vibrant flavor. Don’t skip this step; it brightens up the dish beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
You can serve these chicken bites over a bed of savory Parmesan linguine or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use other types of pasta with this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute linguine with your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine or spaghetti.

How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is not spicy; however, you can add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.

How long does it take to prepare I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Preparation takes around 10 minutes, while cooking takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

I Just Made This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Whether you enjoy them over pasta or paired with veggies, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try today!

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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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• Author: Valeria
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, a dish that’s perfect for any occasion! These juicy chicken pieces are infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a mouthwatering experience that elevates your dinner table. Paired with creamy Parmesan linguine, this recipe is not just quick to prepare but also brimming with flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or special gatherings. With its combination of ease and taste, these bites are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 8 oz linguine
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chicken pieces seasoned with Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
4. Add cooked linguine to the skillet with chicken and toss gently with Parmesan cheese for one additional minute.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added freshness, use minced fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Substitute linguine with other pasta types such as fettuccine or spaghetti.