Garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe, this one started in my kitchen on a busy night with just chicken, garlic, butter, and Parmesan. I threw it all in a pan, hoping for something quick. The result? Juicy, crispy, cheesy bites that my family couldn’t stop eating. Now it’s a go-to dinner we make on repeat.
Table of Contents
What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe Explained
This garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe features bite-sized chicken pieces sautéed in garlic butter, then tossed with Parmesan for a crisp, savory coating. No deep frying, no breadcrumbs just simple, high-flavor chicken bites cooked in one skillet.
Why Garlic Parmesan Bites Work Every Time
These garlic parmesan bites are juicy inside, golden outside, and full of rich, cheesy garlic flavor. Whether served alone, in pasta, or over salad, this garlic chicken recipe is always a win.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe -The Ultimate 15-Minute Dinner Hack
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These quick-cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are perfect as an appetizer or for topping salads and pasta!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp parsley
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. *see notes if using chicken tenders or breasts
- Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt and pepper, then add into hot skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add in the Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt and stir, allowing it to melt and coat the chicken. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Remove the pan from the heat and quickly add in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Toss to coat the chicken and serve immediately.
Notes
Notes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 people
- Calories: 154kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 266mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 111mg
Ingredients for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
Choosing the Right Chicken for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
To get the best results from this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe, start with quality chicken. I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their natural juiciness and richer flavor. They brown well, stay tender, and give you that juicy bite every time.
You can also use chicken tenders or breast meat, but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. If you choose this method, a touch of oil helps prevent sticking and adds a beautiful golden finish.
| Chicken Cut | Flavor | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thighs | Rich | Juicy | Everyday dinners |
| Tenders | Milder | Tender | Kid-friendly meals |
| Breasts | Lean | Can dry fast | Lighter options |
PRO TIP: For that signature crispy edge, make sure the chicken pieces are cut evenly and the pan is hot before adding them.
Must-Have Ingredients for Flavor-Packed Garlic Chicken Bites
This garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe comes together with a short list of ingredients but each one plays a big role in flavor:
- 1½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into tender, bite-sized chunks
- ½ tsp garlic powder, for a gentle layer of savory garlic flavor
- ¼ tsp salt + ⅛ tsp black pepper – balance and boost everything
- 2 tbsp Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt – adds rich, buttery coating
- 2 tsp minced garlic – for fresh garlic flavor that stands out
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – melts into the butter to form a cheesy crust
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley – for a fresh finish and color pop
If you’re using chicken breasts or tenders, add 1–2 tsp of oil to the skillet to prevent sticking. This small step ensures clean browning and crisp edges.
These ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this easy garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe anytime.
Don’t miss our lemon mascarpone cake for a simple dessert that pairs perfectly with savory meals like this.
Check out our cinnamon roll cheesecake for the perfect sweet ending.
Step-by-Step Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
Quick Prep Before You Cook
For this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe, start by cutting chicken into small pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mince garlic, chop parsley, and grate Parmesan this helps everything come together fast.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Serve hot. Enjoy crispy garlic parmesan bites with rich, cheesy flavor.
Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add oil if using chicken breast.
Add seasoned chicken. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned.
Add butter and minced garlic. Stir until melted and fragrant.
Remove from heat. Add Parmesan and parsley. Toss to coat.
Sauce It Right – Best Garlic Parmesan Coating
The Key to That Rich Garlic Parmesan Flavor
The heart of this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe is the buttery garlic-Parmesan coating. It’s simple but packed with flavor.
Once your chicken is cooked, melt Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt in the pan. This butter adds rich flavor and helps the garlic coat every bite. Stir in fresh minced garlic for a bold, fragrant base.
Why Parmesan Works So Well
Right after removing the pan from heat, toss in finely grated Parmesan cheese. It melts slightly into the butter, sticking perfectly to each piece of chicken. The result? A savory, cheesy crust with big garlic flavor.
Fresh chopped parsley adds color and a fresh finish that balances the richness.
This easy garlic Parmesan sauce transforms basic chicken into an unforgettable bite.
Pro Tips for Crispy and Flavorful Chicken Bites
How to Get That Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crisp
To make your garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe truly unforgettable, texture is just as important as flavor. These pro tips guarantee that crispy, golden finish in every bite.
- Use chicken thighs – Thighs are perfect for garlic parmesan chicken. They sear better than breasts and stay juicy inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches to avoid steaming. Overcrowding ruins the crisp.
- Get your skillet hot – A medium-high heat ensures your crispy garlic bites develop a golden crust fast.
Flavor Boosting Secrets for Garlic Parmesan Chicken
To bring out the bold, cheesy flavor in your garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe, timing and layering are key.
- Season early – Garlic powder, salt, and pepper should go on before the chicken hits the pan.
- Add fresh garlic at the end – It brings stronger flavor without bitterness.
- Toss off the heat – Parmesan sticks best when the butter is melted but not bubbling. This creates that signature cheesy coating.
Each step makes a real difference. Whether you’re air frying or pan-searing, these tricks take your garlic parmesan chicken from good to incredible. Expect buttery garlic chicken with crispy edges, melted cheese, and that crave-worthy finish every time.
Discover great ideas like Crispy Rice Salad Recipe for a crunchy, quick side to pair with your chicken.
Serving Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Simple Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken
One of the best parts of this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe is how versatile it is. These buttery, cheesy bites go with just about everything.
- Serve as an appetizer – Add toothpicks and pair with ranch or garlic aioli.
- Top a Caesar salad – Swap croutons for chicken bites for a hearty twist.
- Mix into creamy pasta – Alfredo or pesto sauces work great with garlic and Parmesan.
- Pair with breadsticks – Try it with my 2-ingredient dough or a side of garlic toast.
Family-Friendly Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meals
For a full meal, serve garlic parmesan chicken with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered noodles
- Rice pilaf
Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe fits any moment.
Check out our creamy coconut shrimp for another flavor-packed dinner idea.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe Variations
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
This garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe works perfectly in the air fryer when you want crispy results with less oil. These air fryer garlic parmesan chicken bites are fast, crunchy, and still loaded with buttery garlic-Parmesan flavor.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F
- Toss chicken pieces with oil and garlic powder
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shake halfway
- Coat with butter, minced garlic, and Parmesan after cooking
This variation keeps all the bold flavor of your favorite garlic parmesan chicken, but with a crispier texture and healthier finish. It’s one of the easiest ways to reinvent the original garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe with an air-fried twist.
Low Carb and Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Going low carb? This keto garlic parmesan chicken skips breadcrumbs but keeps the flavor. With chicken thighs, garlic, butter, and Parmesan, you’ll still get that cheesy garlic bite without the carbs.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for rich, juicy texture
- Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes
- Sear, then coat with garlic butter and shredded Parmesan
- Serve your low carb garlic parmesan chicken bites with roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles
This version keeps everything you love about this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe crispy edges, cheesy coating, and garlic-rich flavor while making it keto-friendly.
More Chicken Recipes to Try After This One
Quick and Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas
Once you’ve mastered this garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe, here are more quick chicken meals you’ll love:
- Last-Minute Chicken Recipe – For nights when you have no plan and 20 minutes to spare.
- Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry – One-pan magic with a sweet, sticky glaze and bold sesame flavor.
- Bacon Ranch Grilled Chicken – Smoky, tangy, and perfect for the grill.
- Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast – A cozy, creamy dinner loaded with flavor.
- Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders – Crunchy, juicy, and totally kid-approved.
These chicken recipes follow the same rule: quick, simple, and full of bold flavor just like your garlic parmesan chicken.
Don’t miss our Lemon Rice Soup Recipe — warm and zesty, perfect with quick dinners.
Conclusion
This garlic parmesan chicken bites recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be quick, flavorful, and totally satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you get crispy, juicy chicken coated in buttery garlic and melted Parmesan.
Whether you serve it as an appetizer, over pasta, or on a fresh salad, these bites will become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and bursting with bold flavor in every bite.
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FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
What kind of sauce goes on chicken parm?
Classic chicken Parmesan is topped with marinara and mozzarella. But for these garlic-Parmesan bites, the flavor comes from melted butter, fresh garlic, and grated cheese—no sauce required.
What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and chicken parmesan?
They’re the same dish—“parmigiana” is the Italian term, while “parmesan” is the Americanized version. Traditional versions are breaded and baked with tomato sauce. These chicken bites, however, are pan-seared and coated in garlic butter and cheese.
How do you get breading to stick to chicken parmesan?
To make breading stick, start with a flour coating, then dip in egg, followed by breadcrumbs. This recipe skips the breading altogether—just seasoned chicken cooked in garlic butter and tossed in Parmesan.
What are the three ingredients in Parmesan chicken?
At its core, Parmesan chicken includes chicken, cheese, and a fat like oil or butter. This version upgrades it with garlic, fresh herbs, and a quick pan-sear for added flavor.