If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and perfect for sharing with friends or family, you’ve just found it. The Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe is a delightful mix of tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a garlicky buttery sauce, all topped with savory Parmesan and paired with a cool, zesty herb sauce. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, and it’s guaranteed to become one of your new favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the rich flavors and appealing textures of this dish. From the crispy coating on the chicken bites to the fresh herbs in the sauce, every item contributes to making this recipe unforgettable.
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken ensures tenderness and juiciness in every bite.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This creates the perfect light coating for a crispy, golden exterior.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an essential depth of savory garlicky flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the chicken coating.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken to a perfect crisp without drying it out.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts into rich garlic butter that coats the chicken bites for luscious taste.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick that complements the buttery garlic coating.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh, bright garnish that lifts the whole dish.
- For the Creamy Herb Sauce: A mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh parsley, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper come together to create a cooling, zesty companion to the chicken bites.
How to Make Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by combining the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This aromatic seasoning mixture coats the chicken pieces, creating a base for delicious crispiness once cooked. Make sure each chicken bite is evenly coated and shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken bites. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes per side so they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and cook through without drying out. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, making sure not to burn the garlic. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter mixture so they’re fully coated and glossy. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan over the chicken, stirring briefly to melt the cheese and bind it all together in a rich, flavorful coating.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Herb Sauce
While the chicken finishes up, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, freshly chopped parsley, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This sauce adds a refreshing, tangy counterpart that balances the richness of the garlic butter Parmesan coating beautifully, making each bite exciting and well-rounded.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the luscious Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites and generously drizzle or dollop the creamy herb sauce on top or alongside for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately to enjoy the wonderful contrast of textures and flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the dish with its vibrant green but also adds a subtle herbal freshness that complements the richness. A little extra grated Parmesan can also be sprinkled on top for a more pronounced cheesy finish. A lemon wedge on the side invites your guests to add a squeeze of citrus that lifts the overall flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that allow the chicken bites to shine. Think fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of silky buttered noodles. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables with a touch of lemon make great companions. Even garlic bread or crusty artisan bread are fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests or make a casual gathering feel extra special, serve these chicken bites in mini cast-iron skillets or rustic wooden boards with small bowls of the herb sauce for dipping. Skewering the bites with toothpicks or small forks also encourages fun, interactive nibbling. For a party platter, layer some fresh greens underneath and sprinkle edible flowers or finely chopped chives for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick and delicious meal later. Keep the creamy herb sauce separate if possible to maintain its texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken bites by laying them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. The creamy herb sauce is best made fresh but can be frozen in small portions if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken bites in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. Serve again with fresh creamy herb sauce to keep the flavors vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative since they tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces to match the recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour for coating, which contains gluten. You can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing much on texture or flavor.
Can I make the creamy herb sauce dairy-free?
Yes, just swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for dairy-free versions available in many grocery stores. The sauce will still have that fresh, tangy kick thanks to the mustard, lemon, and herbs.
How spicy is the Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe?
This dish is mild and flavorful without any heat, making it suitable for all palates. If you enjoy a little spice, you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning or sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken by coating it in the seasoned flour mixture and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. The creamy herb sauce can also be made up to a day in advance and kept chilled. Cooking the chicken fresh just before serving ensures the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe truly hits all the right notes for a comforting yet elegant meal. It pairs irresistible flavor with simplicity and flexibility, making it a winner any night of the week. I genuinely hope you fall in love with this dish as much as I have. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate!
Print
Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites with Creamy Herb Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Bites are tender, flavorful pieces of chicken coated in a savory garlic butter and Parmesan cheese blend. Paired with a creamy herb sauce made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and fresh herbs, this quick skillet recipe delivers a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Herb Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them well to coat evenly with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour from the chicken pieces to prevent clumping during cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Return the cooked chicken into the skillet and toss it thoroughly in the garlic butter mixture to coat evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and stir continuously until the cheese melts and forms a nice coating on the chicken bites.
- Make the creamy herb sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Serve: Arrange the garlic butter Parmesan chicken bites on a serving plate. Drizzle the creamy herb sauce over the top or serve it on the side. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder in the seasoning mix for a stronger garlic flavor.
- The creamy herb sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure even browning.
