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Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Juicy, tender, and irresistibly charred on the outside, these Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect harmony of smoky flavor and rich, velvety indulgence. This dish balances the rustic simplicity of grilled chicken with a luxurious, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something savory and satisfying on a weeknight, this recipe delivers big flavor in a small package.

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The grilled chicken bites are marinated for maximum tenderness, then seared to a golden finish. They’re paired with a creamy garlic sauce that’s spiked with a hint of mustard and a touch of lemon for a tangy lift. This combination makes them perfect as a main dish, a protein-packed snack, or even an appetizer for a dinner party. Plus, they’re easy to make in batches, so everyone can have seconds—and they will want seconds.


Ingredients for this Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

For the Chicken Bites:

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken bites and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the chicken bites onto skewers or cook them directly on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Then add the cream, mustard, and lemon juice. Simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Place the grilled chicken bites on a platter and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use boneless thighs for more moisture, and avoid overcooking. Grill until just cooked through and juicy.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently while stirring.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter. The flavor will slightly change but still taste rich.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Just be careful not to overcook as chicken breasts dry out more quickly than thighs.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat is minimal. For spice lovers, add a pinch of cayenne or serve with hot sauce on the side.


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Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Fire up your grill and get ready for a bite-sized flavor bomb. These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce bring together juicy, smoky chicken pieces and a luxuriously smooth sauce that drips with garlicky goodness. Perfect for quick dinners, party appetizers, or even meal prep, this recipe fits right into your go-to list of easy dinner ideas and protein-packed food ideas.

Whether you’re hunting for an easy recipe that feels gourmet or dreaming up new healthy snack options, this dish delivers. With each bite, you get charred edges, savory depth, and that crave-worthy creamy finish—all in under an hour.


Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

3/4 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken to coat. Let marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken bites for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked and charred. Set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for another minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add cream, mustard, and lemon juice. Simmer 5-7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Serve: Plate the chicken bites and drizzle with warm garlic sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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