Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites

Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

Ingredients:

• Chicken Bites:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon-Garlic Marinade:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• For Cooking:
  • Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
  • Extra chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. If you’re using honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, add it to the bowl. Add the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
   • Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl.
   • Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
   • Refrigerate and marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight if you have time.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a large skillet for stovetop cooking.
   • If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
   • For stovetop cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • Oven Method:
     • Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
     • Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
     • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
     • For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
   • Stovetop Method:
     • Add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook in batches.
     • Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the cooked chicken bites to a serving platter.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
   • Serve immediately while warm.

Tips:

• Chicken Variations: You can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or white meat for a leaner option.
• Marinade Options: For a different twist, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of soy sauce to the marinade.
• Serving Suggestions: These chicken bites pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even over a bed of rice or quinoa.

This Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the zesty, garlicky goodness of these flavorful bites at your next meal!