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Top-down look at golden chicken bites scattered with garlic cloves and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Sear chicken cubes in a garlic butter sauce with Italian herbs and smoked paprika for a quick 13-minute skillet dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch cubes (approximately 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 lbs total)
  • 3/4 tsp dried Italian herb mix
  • 3/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Dry Chicken Cubes:

    Arrange the chicken cubes on a plate and thoroughly dry them using paper towels.
  2. Mix Spice Blend:

    In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Season Chicken Pieces:

    Evenly dust the spice mixture over the chicken and stir to coat each piece.
  4. Sear Chicken in Butter:

    Heat a large (12-inch) heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. When the butter has melted, arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer.
  5. Cook Until Golden:

    Let the chicken sear without moving for 3-4 minutes, then turn each piece and cook for another 4-5 minutes until all sides are golden brown and the meat is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C).
  6. Make Garlic Butter Sauce:

    Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until the butter liquefies and the garlic becomes aromatic and soft. Remove from heat.
  7. Coat with Sauce:

    Stir the chicken to evenly cover it with the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with optional parsley if desired.