Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites

Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites

These delicious bite-sized chicken pieces are perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. They can be served with your favorite dipping sauce, on a bed of rice, or incorporated into a salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)




• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This will help ensure even browning. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
2. Marinate (optional): In a bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes) for extra flavor.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you didn’t marinate the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.
4. Dredge the chicken (optional): For a crispier exterior, dredge the chicken in flour before adding it to the pan. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Sear the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.

Tips:

• Chicken selection: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a leaner option, but chicken thighs will be slightly more flavorful and juicy.
• Cooking variations: You can bake the chicken bites instead of pan-frying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chicken with olive oil, herbs, and spices, then spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Herb options: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Oregano, basil, and tarragon are all great options.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Leftovers: These chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites!