Grilled Chicken Bites Garlic

This grilled chicken bites dish is everything you want when you need something quick satisfying and packed with flavor It started as a last minute idea on a busy weeknight and now it is a regular request from my family The creamy garlic sauce turns simple chicken into something really special

I made this for my kids one afternoon when we were craving takeout but wanted something lighter and homemade It was gone in minutes and they asked for it again the next day

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: they cook quickly and stay juicy when cubed
• Olive oil: helps the seasoning coat the chicken evenly and adds richness
• Paprika: brings warm earthy flavor and enhances the grilled color
• Garlic powder: boosts the savory base flavor of the chicken
• Salt and pepper: to bring everything into balance
• Butter: makes the garlic sauce rich and flavorful
• Fresh garlic: adds bold aromatic depth to the sauce
• Heavy cream: the base for the creamy texture that clings to the chicken
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and thickness to the sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley: gives a burst of freshness and color at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into one inch cubes Pat them dry with paper towels to help them brown properly in the pan or grill

Season and Marinate:

In a mixing bowl combine olive oil paprika garlic powder salt and pepper Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes or up to two hours for deeper flavor

Grill the Chicken Bites:

Preheat your grill to medium high heat around four hundred to four hundred fifty degrees Place the chicken cubes directly on the grill or use skewers for easier handling Cook for ten to fifteen minutes turning every few minutes until charred on the edges and the internal temperature hits one hundred sixty five degrees

Make the Garlic Sauce:

While the chicken grills melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for one to two minutes until just golden and fragrant

Add the Cream:

Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine Let the sauce simmer gently for five to seven minutes until it thickens slightly

Incorporate the Cheese:

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese Let it cook for one to two more minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy

Serve It Up:

Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter Drizzle generously with the hot garlic sauce and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley

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I always keep a wedge of Parmesan on hand for this recipe It is the secret to that nutty depth in the sauce and reminds me of Sunday dinners growing up when my dad would grate cheese right at the table

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave stirring the sauce to keep it from separating

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier texture Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce Try Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan for a sharper bite

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Serving Suggestions

Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce Pair with roasted broccoli or green beans for a full meal Add to a wrap or sandwich with greens for a quick lunch

Cultural Context

This dish takes cues from Mediterranean garlic sauces like toum and combines them with the creamy richness common in ItalianAmerican cooking It is a blend of backyard grilling and comfort food sauce

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

Absolutely! If a grill isn’t available, pan-searing the chicken bites over high heat in a skillet works just as well. Be sure to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. The outside should be nicely charred, and the interior juicy and opaque.

→ Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the creamy garlic sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and add a splash of cream if it thickens too much.

→ What are good sides for this dish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great too. They tend to be juicier and slightly richer in flavor than breasts.

→ How spicy is the seasoning?

The spice blend used is mild and flavorful, featuring paprika and garlic powder. You can add chili flakes or cayenne for extra heat if desired.