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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Asparagus

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  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 365 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Asparagus

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus
  • Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels. Dry chicken browns much better than wet chicken. Place the chicken into a mixing bowl.

Add:

  • Paprika
  • Italian seasoning
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix well until every piece is evenly coated.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim away the woody ends.

Cut into bite-sized pieces approximately 2 inches long.

Set aside.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Cook without stirring for about 3 minutes to develop a golden crust.

Flip and continue cooking another 4–5 minutes until fully cooked.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Time: 8 minutes

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium.

Add butter to the same skillet.

When melted, stir in minced garlic.

Cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.

The aroma should become rich and buttery.

Time: 2 minutes

Step 5: Cook the Asparagus

Add the asparagus directly into the garlic butter.

Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Cook for 4–5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

The asparagus should become bright green and crisp-tender.

Avoid overcooking.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Toss gently until the chicken is completely coated with garlic butter.

Cook for another 2–3 minutes so all flavors combine beautifully.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Time: 3 minutes

Cooking Tips

  • Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for maximum flavor.
  • Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
  • Let the chicken brown before stirring.
  • Fresh asparagus gives the best texture.
  • Finish with fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  • Use high-quality butter for richer flavor.

Recipe Variations

Add Mushrooms

Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding asparagus.

Make It Spicy

Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.

Cheesy Version

Top with shredded mozzarella or freshly grated Parmesan.

Low Dairy

Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.

Extra Vegetables

Try adding:

  • Broccoli
  • Zucchini
  • Green beans
  • Bell peppers
  • Spinach

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Steamed rice
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Buttered noodles
  • Roasted potatoes
  • Dinner rolls
  • Fresh green salad
  • Quinoa

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of chicken broth or butter.

Microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Success Tips

  • Always preheat your skillet.
  • Use medium-high heat to create a golden crust.
  • Cook asparagus until crisp rather than soft.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor.
  • Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 365
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Potassium: 780mg
  • Vitamin A: 18% DV
  • Vitamin C: 15% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 12% DV

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

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