Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are a quick, flavorful, and protein-packed dish that brings bold taste to your table with minimal effort. Made with tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs, coated in butter, garlic, and Parmesan, this skillet-fried favorite is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or party appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken bites are incredibly easy to make, ready in just 15 minutes, and deliver rich, savory flavor in every bite. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and butter creates a delicious coating that clings to juicy chicken pieces without the need for breading or deep frying. This versatile recipe pairs well with salads, pastas, or vegetables—or stands alone as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the skillet:
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using boneless skinless chicken tenders or breasts, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of oil to prevent sticking.

2. Season the chicken:
   Sprinkle the chicken pieces evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Cook the chicken:
   Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

4. Add garlic and butter:
   Reduce heat slightly, then stir in the Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Finish with cheese and herbs:
   Remove the pan from heat. Immediately add the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 people

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 154 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

• Crispy bites: Lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch before cooking for a slightly crisp exterior.

• Cheese blend: Use a combination of Parmesan and Romano or Asiago for added flavor depth.

• Herb twist: Swap parsley with fresh basil or thyme for a different herbal note.

• Different cuts: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain juiciness. These chicken bites are not ideal for freezing as the texture of the Parmesan coating may change.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts or tenders work well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

What type of Parmesan is best?

Finely grated Parmesan (not the shelf-stable powder) melts better and coats the chicken more evenly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and cook the chicken ahead, then quickly reheat in a skillet just before serving.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

No marinating is needed—the seasoning and butter-garlic mixture provide plenty of flavor quickly.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese and butter labels to ensure there are no added gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli make great additions either cooked separately or in the same pan.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Use chicken thighs for best results and avoid overcooking. Cooking just until the pieces are browned and cooked through ensures tenderness.

Can I bake these instead of using a skillet?

You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, then toss with garlic, butter, Parmesan, and parsley after baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet so the chicken browns properly—cook in batches if needed.

What should I serve with these chicken bites?

These bites pair well with pasta, roasted vegetables, salads, rice, or even tucked into wraps or sandwiches.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are a simple, flavor-packed dish that comes together quickly and satisfies every time. Whether served as an entrée, a party snack, or a meal prep staple, this recipe delivers garlicky, cheesy goodness in a way that’s easy and delicious. Keep it in your weekly rotation for a meal that’s as fast as it is flavorful.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are juicy, golden, and bursting with savory flavor! Made with tender chicken thighs, garlic, and a cheesy Parmesan coating, they’re pan-seared to perfection and ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or protein-packed snack!

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Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/8 tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt (or regular butter)

• 2 tsp minced garlic

• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. (If using chicken tenders or breasts, add 1–2 tsp of oil to the pan first.)

2. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

4. Stir in butter and allow it to melt, coating the chicken.

5. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Remove from heat and toss in Parmesan cheese and parsley.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Chicken breasts or tenders work well, just add a little oil to prevent sticking.

• Serve over pasta, rice, or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: American