Introduction
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are tender, juicy morsels of marinated chicken served with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. This dish balances smoky char with rich, velvety flavors — perfect as an appetizer, party platter, or main course.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
While there isn’t a single place of origin, grilled chicken is beloved in cuisines worldwide, from Mediterranean skewers to Southeast Asian satay. Garlic cream sauces, often seen in French and Mediterranean cooking, add a luxurious element. Bringing them together creates a versatile fusion dish that celebrates the universal appeal of simple grilled meats paired with bold sauces.
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Ingredients (serves 4–6)
For the chicken bites:
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: 600 g / 1.3 lb, cut into bite-sized cubes
Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
Salt: ½ tsp
Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Paprika or smoked paprika: ½ tsp (optional)
For the creamy garlic sauce:
Butter: 2 tbsp
Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
Parmesan cheese, finely grated: ¼ cup (25 g)
Salt: to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped: 1 tbsp
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Optional Additions
Add crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
Swap cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter version.
Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Serve with skewers for easy handling at parties.
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Tips for Success
Marinate chicken for at least 20–30 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Preheat grill or grill pan until hot to achieve a good sear without drying the meat.
Simmer sauce gently — do not boil — to keep it silky and prevent curdling.
Rest grilled chicken for a couple of minutes before tossing with sauce or serving.
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Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add chicken, mix well, and marinate for 20–60 minutes.
2. Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers (optional) or place directly on the grill. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
3. Make the sauce: In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in cream, reduce heat, and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and season with salt. Cook until smooth and slightly thickened, then add parsley.
4. Serve: Plate grilled chicken bites and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce, or serve sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
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Description
Golden-brown chicken bites glisten under a drizzle of velvety garlic cream sauce. Each bite bursts with smoky, savory flavor, complemented by the richness of Parmesan and butter. The aroma of garlic elevates the dish into pure comfort food.
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx., based on 6 servings)
Calories: 260 kcal
Protein: 23 g
Fat: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sodium: 310 mg
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are an ideal choice for casual dinners, potlucks, or appetizer spreads. Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice to complete the meal.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Choose lean chicken breast and trim excess fat for a lighter profile.
Replace part of the cream with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories.
Use herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for extra flavor without added fat.
Balance your plate with colorful veggies or whole grains for a nourishing, satisfying dish.
