Ingredients
Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need:
- 20 oz (1 ¼ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides a lean source of protein and cooks quickly.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps create a light crust on the chicken, enhancing its texture.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthy flavor that complements the garlic butter.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Infuses the chicken with a slightly sweet, peppery taste.
- ½ tsp paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken bites.
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste: Adds a bit of heat and balances the other spices.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds a mild fruity note.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: The star ingredient, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a bold, aromatic flavor that’s classic and comforting.
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step ensures the chicken browns nicely in the pan. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the flour, dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper over the chicken. Toss the chicken until every piece is well coated with the seasoning and flour mixture. This light coating adds a delicious crust to the chicken bites.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a golden crust.
4. Flip and Cook:
After 3 minutes, flip the chicken pieces over using a spatula or tongs. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through on the other side.
5. Add Garlic and Finish:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Cook for an additional minute, stirring to coat the chicken bites in the garlic butter sauce. Once the garlic is fragrant and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Serve Immediately:
Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter and spoon any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Overcrowding the Pan: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; this helps the chicken to brown properly instead of steaming.
- Using Cold Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Burning the Garlic: Add garlic towards the end of cooking to avoid burning, which can turn it bitter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner