Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer. The combination of zesty lemon and savory garlic creates a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano (if using), honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss until all the chicken is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Chicken Bites:
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
- Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes depending on the size of your chicken pieces. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken bites to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for extra zing.
- Serve hot as an appetizer, snack, or with a side of rice or vegetables for a full meal.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- These chicken bites also work well on skewers, especially for grilling or serving at parties.
Enjoy your zesty, garlicky, and delicious Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites!