Name: Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

This dish brings together juicy, marinated chicken bites grilled to perfection and coated in a rich, velvety garlic sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that feels both comforting and elevated—ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances bold flavors with simplicity. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices that infuse it with depth, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a luxurious finish. It’s versatile enough to serve with various sides, and the whole meal comes together in just about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Grill: I start by preheating my grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it ready for the chicken.
Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, I combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and oregano. I toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
Skewer the Chicken: If I’m using wooden skewers, I soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Then, I thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the Chicken: I place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. I ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, I remove the skewers from the grill and set the chicken aside.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter. I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Cream and Cheese: I pour in the heavy cream and stir. I bring it to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. I cook the sauce for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
Combine: I add the grilled chicken bites into the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: I sprinkle fresh parsley over the top if desired and serve the dish hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
Herbaceous Twist: I mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce for added flavor.
Lemon Zest: I add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce to brighten up the flavors.
Vegetable Addition: I include grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken for a more complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat and warm gently until heated through. Alternatively, I microwave them in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure the chicken stays moist.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be golden brown on the outside.

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes! I often prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat it gently before serving.

What can I serve these grilled chicken bites with?

These grilled chicken bites pair perfectly with pasta, rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. I love serving them with a fresh side salad and some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

While fresh chicken breasts are preferred, I can use frozen chicken breasts if needed. I just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even grilling.

Can I make this recipe on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?

Absolutely! If I’m not using a grill, I simply cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a dish I can always count on to impress. It’s comforting, flavorful, and comes together quickly. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special treat for a gathering, I know I’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.