Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe – Step by Step Guide:- If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish to add to your repertoire, look no further than lemon garlic chicken bites. This recipe combines tender chunks of chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic for a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep staple, these chicken bites are bound to become a favorite in your household.Â
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe – Step by Step Guide
It is not necessary to search any further than lemon garlic chicken bites if you are looking for a recipe that is not only delectable but also quick and adaptable to add to your repertoire. This recipe creates a dish that is likely to please even the most picky eaters by combining soft slices of chicken with lemon that has a zesty flavour and garlic that has a fragrant aroma.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
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Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a resealable plastic bag.Â
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Skewer the Chicken (optional): If you prefer, you can skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers for easier handling and even cooking. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly, So be sure to check for doneness by cutting into one of the larger pieces to ensure there is no pink in the center.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken pieces.
Serve and Garnish: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken just before eating.
Tips:
Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap out the dried herbs for fresh ones for a brighter flavor. These lemon garlic chicken bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them over rice, pasta, or a bed of greens for a more substantial meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: These chicken bites are perfect for meal prep. Cook up a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Drizzle any extra pan juices over the top for added flavor.
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that thighs may have a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
2. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! These chicken bites can be cooked on an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan for a delicious charred flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking for even browning.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover lemon garlic chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
4. Can I freeze these chicken bites?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken bites for longer storage. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. What side dishes pair well with these chicken bites? These chicken bites pair well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. Choose your favorite sides to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 28g