I remember meeting an elderly woman at a local farmers’ market one chilly Saturday morning. She stood by the stall, carefully picking out fresh herbs, her hands shaking slightly from age. She had a small, handwritten recipe card with her, a relic from her youth, scribbled with a dish she was eager to recreate. She told me it was a chicken recipe her mother used to make for family gatherings, and she had not tasted it in years.
Despite the simplicity of the ingredients, she was certain that it would bring her memories flooding back. I didn’t know it then, but that conversation sparked an idea for a recipe that felt equally as nostalgic and comforting. Something easy to make, yet satisfying enough to bring those little moments of joy. Grilled chicken bites, with a side of creamy garlic sauce, instantly became a symbol of simplicity.
With just a few pantry staples and a grill, you can create something truly special. It was a reminder that sometimes the simplest meals are the ones that carry the most weight—reminiscent of times shared with loved ones and those we may have lost along the way.
Short Description
Grilled Chicken Bites are flavorful, tender pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Served with a creamy garlic sauce, this dish makes for a delicious appetizer or a main course.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers (optional)
- Small bowl for sauce
- Basting brush (optional)
- Tongs for flipping the chicken
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning mix. Let it sit for a few minutes to marinate and absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using skewers, thread the chicken onto them, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Bites
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re fully cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color with grill marks.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F. For an added smoky flavor, you can baste the chicken with a little extra olive oil or marinade during grilling.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve the grilled chicken bites with the creamy garlic sauce either drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These grilled chicken bites are a crowd-pleaser that packs all the flavor in a bite-sized portion. The crispy, smoky exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender interior, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a refreshing richness.
It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare, but the combination of flavors will leave everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile — serve them as a snack, main dish, or even at a BBQ.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Chicken too dry: If your chicken turns out dry, make sure you don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C). Also, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes helps retain moisture.
Grill marks but undercooked chicken: If you get those perfect grill marks but find the chicken undercooked inside, lower the grill heat and cook the chicken a little longer, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Sauce too tangy: If the creamy garlic sauce is too tangy, add a bit more mayonnaise to balance out the flavors. You can also adjust the lemon juice to your liking.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
– Serve these grilled chicken bites as a main dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
– Pair them with a refreshing iced tea or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
– They also make a great addition to a BBQ platter, served alongside grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or fresh fruit.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy garlic sauce can also be stored in a separate container for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, covered, for 1-2 minutes until heated through. The sauce can be warmed gently in a small pan.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work great. They’re juicier and more flavorful, but ensure they’re fully cooked before serving.
2. Can I grill this without skewers?
Absolutely! Just place the chicken directly on the grill or use a grill basket for easy handling.
3. Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you like a little heat, try adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace the creamy garlic sauce with a dairy-free mayo and yogurt alternative, or try making a simple avocado dip.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
Tips & Tricks
– For extra crispy chicken bites, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning. This will help the seasonings stick better.
– If you’re short on time, skip the skewers and grill the chicken straight on the grates for a quicker cook.
Recipe Variations
Lemon Herb Chicken Bites
Swap the paprika for dried oregano and thyme, and add a bit more lemon juice for a bright, herby flavor. Perfect for those who prefer a more citrusy profile.
BBQ Grilled Chicken Bites
Coat the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the garlic seasoning before grilling for a smoky-sweet twist.
Spicy Chicken Bites
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick. Serve with a cooling ranch dip for balance.
Final Thoughts
Cooking, to me, is always more than just about the food. It’s about the stories, the moments, and the connections it fosters. These grilled chicken bites, paired with creamy garlic sauce, remind me of the simplicity and comfort that food can offer, whether it’s shared with family or enjoyed alone.
The ease of preparation, the layers of flavor, and the chance to customize it all bring a sense of satisfaction that goes beyond the plate. I hope this recipe becomes part of your own memories, a little piece of joy to share with those around you.
Grilled Chicken Bites With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toss chicken pieces in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes to marinate.
- Heat the grill to medium-high. If using skewers, thread the chicken with some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden-brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For extra flavor, baste with olive oil or marinade during grilling.
- Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken or serve on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley.
