Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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🧄 Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

🍗 Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

  • 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs — cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 3 cloves garlic — minced

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 4–5 cloves garlic — minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

  • ¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

  • Squeeze of lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)

🔥 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and oregano.

  2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat well.

  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).

2. Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken

Grill method:

  1. Preheat grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat.

  2. Lightly oil the grates.

  3. Grill chicken bites for 3–4 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

Pan method:

  1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan with a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat.

  2. Cook the chicken bites in batches (avoid crowding) for 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.

  3. Remove and set aside on a plate.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  1. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add butter and olive oil.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant (don’t burn it).

  3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth (if using), stirring to combine.

  4. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes).

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Optional: add a small squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

4. Combine and Serve

  1. Return grilled chicken bites to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

  2. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to let flavors meld.

  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed veggies.

  • Add a side of garlic bread or roasted broccoli for a full meal.

💡 Tips

  • For extra smokiness, grill the chicken over charcoal.

  • Substitute Greek yogurt or light cream for a lower-calorie sauce.

  • Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a flavorful twist.

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