Grilled Chicken Bites With Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

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These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delightful appetizer or main course! Tender pieces of chicken are seasoned and grilled to perfection, then tossed in a rich, velvety garlic sauce that adds depth and flavor. It’s the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and smoky goodness. The dish is quick, easy, and ideal for both casual gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

For the grilled chicken bites:

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)

1/2 tsp ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)

For the creamy garlic sauce:

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a tangy note)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:

Cut the chicken breasts (or thighs) into bite-sized cubes.

In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until the chicken is evenly coated in the spices.

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Once hot, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers or directly place them on the grill.

Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and set aside.

2. Make the creamy garlic sauce:

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.

Add the butter to the pan and let it melt, stirring it into the garlic.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally.

Once the cream starts to thicken (about 3-4 minutes), add the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a little lemon juice for a tangy kick.

Remove the sauce from the heat once it reaches your desired consistency.

3. Combine and serve:

Toss the grilled chicken bites in the creamy garlic sauce, making sure each piece is coated well.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Serve immediately as an appetizer, over rice, with a salad, or as part of a main course.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Calories: 360

Protein: 38g

Carbohydrates: 4g

Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 9g

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 2g

Cholesterol: 90mg

Sodium: 450mg

Vitamin A: 15% DV

Vitamin C: 2% DV

Calcium: 15% DV

Iron: 5% DV

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Notes:

Chicken Selection: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean option, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.

Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken bites in a grill pan or a regular frying pan. Just ensure the pieces are evenly cooked through.

Creamy Garlic Sauce Adjustments: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, although it may slightly alter the consistency and richness of the sauce.

Cheese Options: While Parmesan is used in this recipe for its sharp, nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different nuances.

Make-Ahead: The creamy garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on low heat, adding a little extra cream if it thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to create a more filling meal.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using shrimp, cook it briefly, just until it turns pink and opaque.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce or sprinkle some chili powder over the chicken before grilling.

3. Can I make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative. For a cheesy flavor, try adding a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

4. What other herbs can I use for garnish?

Besides parsley, you can use fresh basil, thyme, or even a bit of chives for an added flavor boost.

Total Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes