Description
Bold, zesty, and ready in under 30 minutes, Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are the ultimate quick dinner idea that’s bursting with flavor. Seared chicken pieces are tossed in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce that’s rich, bright, and irresistibly savory. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this easy recipe brings together your favorite pantry staples with a fresh citrus twist. It’s the perfect mix of comfort food and light, healthy eating—great for anyone looking for easy dinner ideas, healthy protein meals, or fast weeknight food ideas.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and chili flakes to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
5. Return chicken to the skillet. Add lemon juice and zest. Stir to coat evenly.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra depth, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing—cook in batches if needed for better browning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 0.6g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 96mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy recipe, lemon chicken, garlic chicken, healthy chicken bites