These lemon garlic chicken bites are one of my favourite quick meals. The juicy chicken pieces are cooked in butter, infused with garlic, and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a bright, zesty flavour. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that I can whip up in under 30 minutes — perfect for a busy night or when I want something light but satisfying. Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I always enjoy making these chicken bites because:

They cook quickly since the chicken is cut into small pieces.
The garlic butter and lemon combination gives a vibrant, mouthwatering flavour.
Everything comes together in one pan, so cleanup is minimal.
It’s versatile — I can serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables.
It feels fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pat dry and cut into 1-inch pieces
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 2–3 cloves)
Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Pat the chicken dry and cut into 1-inch pieces. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once the butter melts, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Add the remaining butter to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken and stir well to coat.
Cook for another minute to let the flavours combine, then remove from heat.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 20–22 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the seasoning.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt at the end.
Citrus twist: Replace lemon with lime or orange for a different flavour profile.
Herb variation: Add thyme or rosemary instead of oregano and basil.
Grilled version: Marinate the chicken with the same seasonings and grill instead of pan-frying.

Storage/Reheating

Store: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of lemon juice or butter if needed to keep it moist.
Freeze: You can freeze cooked chicken bites for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I often use chicken thighs when I want juicier, more flavourful bites.

Can I make this without butter?

Yes, I sometimes use olive oil for a lighter version, but butter adds a rich, savory flavour that complements the garlic and lemon beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The pieces should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can season the chicken earlier in the day and cook it later. It keeps the flavour strong and saves time at dinner.

What can I serve with lemon garlic chicken bites?

I like serving them with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

I love how these lemon garlic chicken bites turn a few simple ingredients into something truly flavorful. The combination of juicy chicken, garlic butter, and lemon makes a dish that’s bright, savory, and comforting all at once. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for when I want a home-cooked meal that feels special without much effort.