These grilled chicken bites are juicy and packed with flavor! Tossed in a creamy garlic sauce, they are perfect for a quick meal or a yummy snack.
Who can resist that delicious sauce? I could drizzle it on everything! 😂 These bites are easy to make and are great for sharing (or not!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I like using chicken breast for its lean quality, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite. They add more flavor, so it’s a good switch if you’re a fan of dark meat.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but if you don’t have it, any cooking oil works. Avocado oil or vegetable oil are both great alternatives for grilling.
Garlic Powder: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can substitute with fresh minced garlic. Just adjust the amount based on your taste. I often use two cloves instead of one teaspoon of powder.
Smoked Paprika: If you can’t find it, regular paprika will work too, but it lacks that smoky flavor. Consider a dash of chipotle powder if you’re up for a bit of heat!
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce: If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. It’s tangy and healthy! You can also skip the mayo for a healthier sauce.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Grill Perfectly?
Getting chicken bites to grill just right is key for this recipe! First, make sure your grill or grill pan is hot. This helps create a nice sear and lock in the juices.
- Start marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This builds flavor and tenderness.
- Once the grill is preheated, place the chicken pieces down carefully. Avoid crowding them to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t flip too soon! Allowing a good 4–5 minutes per side gives those nice grill marks and helps keep the moisture inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). It’s the best way to be sure it’s cooked without being dry.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Bites With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Grilling will take an additional 10 minutes. In total, you’ll spend around 50 minutes making this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Chicken:
In a large bowl, add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well until all the chicken is coated. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating it longer is even better!
2. Preheating the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. It needs to be hot so that the chicken gets a nice grilling texture.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, add the marinated chicken bites. Cook them for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
4. Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This sauce will add a delicious creamy touch!
5. Serving Your Dish:
Once your chicken bites are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, serve the grilled chicken bites on a plate with a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and tenderness. Just make sure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces as the breasts for even cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead! Make it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine the ingredients, as it may separate a bit in the fridge.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream?
No worries! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, mix equal parts of cream cheese and milk to create a creamy consistency. Adjust the salt if necessary since the flavors can vary.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Drizzle a little water or chicken broth to keep them moist if needed!
