Craving a quick, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress? Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are tender Juicy Chicken Bites kissed with smoky spices and draped in a rich, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these zesty chicken bites are easy to make and irresistible. With a creamy, Parmesan-laced sauce, this creamy garlic chicken dish will have everyone asking for more. Let’s fire up the grill and make this Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Bold and Smoky: Grilled chicken with spices delivers vibrant flavor in every zesty chicken bite.
- Creamy Decadence: A garlicky, Parmesan sauce makes this creamy garlic chicken irresistible.
- Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Versatile: Serve as a main, appetizer, or in wraps for savory chicken nuggets.
- Family-Friendly: Customizable flavors that kids and adults love.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need for these savory chicken nuggets (serves 4):
Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Serving (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Serving platter
Ingredient Tips
- Chicken: Use boneless breasts for tender Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce; thighs add juiciness to zesty chicken bites.
- Paprika: Adds smoky depth; smoked paprika boosts flavor in creamy garlic chicken.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a silky sauce; coconut cream works for dairy-free savory chicken nuggets.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated adds nutty richness; omit or use nutritional yeast for dairy-free zesty chicken bites.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour suits gluten-free creamy garlic chicken.
Directions for Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Let’s whip up these zesty chicken bites!
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, I toss 1.5 lbs chicken cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
- I cover and marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor) to ensure flavorful savory chicken nuggets.
Grill the Chicken
- I preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
- I thread the chicken onto skewers or place directly on the grill, spacing evenly.
- I grill for 4–5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (165°F or 74°C internally), creating smoky zesty chicken bites.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan, I melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. I add 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
- I whisk in 1 tbsp flour for 30 seconds to form a roux, then slowly pour in ¾ cup chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
- I add ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ cup Parmesan, simmering for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- I season with salt and pepper for a luscious creamy garlic chicken sauce.
Serve
- I arrange the grilled chicken on a platter, drizzle with the warm creamy garlic sauce, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- I serve immediately, savoring the smoky, creamy goodness of these savory chicken nuggets.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~27–30 minutes
- Servings: 4 (about 6–8 bites per serving)
- Calories: ~350–400 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 10g carbs, 30g protein, 22g fat, 1g fiber
Variations for Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Try these twists on these savory chicken nuggets:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne to the marinade for fiery zesty chicken bites.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh rosemary instead of oregano, inspired by Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream for coconut cream and Parmesan for nutritional yeast for dairy-free creamy garlic chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Add grilled zucchini or peppers, paired with Food and Tips’ Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in the sauce for gluten-free zesty chicken bites.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta for a hearty meal.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Broccoli Chicken Fritters for a protein-packed spread.
Storage
I store leftover zesty chicken bites and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, I freeze the chicken bites (without sauce) in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. I reheat chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven or skillet for 5–8 minutes and warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, whisking to combine, for fresh creamy garlic chicken.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange these savory chicken nuggets on a platter with sauce drizzled for a vibrant look.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or parsley for flair.
- Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for balance.
- Portion Size: 6–8 bites per person for a meal or 3–4 as an appetizer.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or meal prep.
FAQs About Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs make juicier Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free zesty chicken bite sauce.
What if I don’t have a grill?
Cook in a nonstick skillet or grill pan for flavorful savory chicken nuggets.
Can I prep ahead?
Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead for easy creamy garlic chicken assembly.
How do I keep the sauce smooth?
Whisk constantly and add broth slowly for a silky spicy cheese melt sauce.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
- Vegetable Fritters
- Crispy Chickpea & Sweet Potato Fritters with Avocado Sauce
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a quick, smoky, and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These zesty chicken bites with luscious sauce will steal the show. Grill up these savory chicken nuggets, drizzle with sauce, and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal!
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs 680g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp 30ml olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp 30g unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup 180ml chicken broth
- ½ cup 120ml heavy cream
- ¼ cup 25g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, I toss 1.5 lbs chicken cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. I cover and marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor) to ensure flavorful savory chicken nuggets.
Grill the Chicken
- I preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). I thread the chicken onto skewers or place directly on the grill, spacing evenly. I grill for 4–5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (165°F or 74°C internally), creating smoky zesty chicken bites.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan, I melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. I add 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. I whisk in 1 tbsp flour for 30 seconds to form a roux, then slowly pour in ¾ cup chicken broth, whisking until smooth. I add ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ cup Parmesan, simmering for 3–4 minutes until thickened. I season with salt and pepper for a luscious creamy garlic chicken sauce.
Serve
- I arrange the grilled chicken on a platter, drizzle with the warm creamy garlic sauce, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. I serve immediately, savoring the smoky, creamy goodness of these savory chicken nuggets.
Notes
- You can swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for juicier bites.
- The garlic sauce pairs well with roasted veggies, pasta, or rice.
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