Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These grilled chicken bites will win you over for several reasons:
- Tender Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure quick cooking and retain their juiciness.
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: The tangy, rich sauce adds depth and flavor to every bite.
- Versatile: Serve on skewers, toss into salads, or enjoy as-is. It’s great for any occasion.
- Quick & Healthy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights while still being nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor. -
Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside. -
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken cubes and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and grill marks appear. For skewers, thread chicken cubes onto skewers and grill similarly. -
Serve with Sauce
Place the grilled chicken bites on a platter. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade or sauce for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free mayo and sour cream alternative for a dairy-free version of the creamy garlic sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to complete the meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. For the sauce, gently warm it in a small pan or microwave before serving.
FAQs
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy when grilling?
Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Grill it for 3-4 minutes per side, just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer dark meat. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking method.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
Add a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
Can I cook the chicken in a skillet instead of a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken bites in a skillet over medium-high heat, making sure to cook them in batches if necessary.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve the chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Can I freeze the grilled chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken bites for up to 2 months. Be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
Can I use a grill pan indoors?
Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well for cooking the chicken as an outdoor grill.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
Conclusion
These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a perfect blend of flavor and simplicity. With tender chicken, a rich garlic sauce, and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, you’ll enjoy this mouthwatering dish every time.
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Marinated in spices and grilled to perfection, they pair beautifully with a rich, tangy garlic sauce. Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, this recipe is quick, healthy, and packed with delicious flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken cubes and grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and grill marks appear.
- (For skewers: Thread chicken cubes onto skewers before grilling.)
Serve with Sauce:
- Place the grilled chicken bites on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade or sauce for heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free mayo and sour cream alternatives.
- Meal Pairing: Serve with grilled veggies, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Cooking Alternative: Can be made in a skillet over medium-high heat instead of a grill.
