Description

Garlic Herbed Chicken Bites are tender, flavorful pieces of chicken breast marinated in a fragrant blend of garlic, Italian herbs, and paprika. These versatile bites can be cooked on the stovetop, baked, or air fried to crispy perfection, then topped with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, salad topper, or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus 1 tablespoon for cooking)
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients and Garnish

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup chicken broth, for moisture during cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch cubes. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
Cook on Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add chicken cubes in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the pan dries out, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the marinated chicken evenly in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Air Fry Option: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd it. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finish and Garnish: Remove the cooked chicken from heat. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot so it melts slightly. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken to add brightness and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve: Serve warm as an appetizer, a main dish with sides, a salad topping, taco filling, or a protein-packed snack.

Notes

Marinating the chicken longer (up to 24 hours) will enhance flavor and tenderness.
Cooking times may vary depending on your equipment; always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
If cooking in batches, keep cooked chicken warm in a low oven while finishing the rest.
The addition of chicken broth during stovetop cooking helps prevent dryness and enhances moisture.
Fresh parsley and lemon juice garnish add freshness and brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes stovetop or baking, 8 to 10 minutes air frying
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: garlic chicken bites, herbed chicken, Italian herbs chicken, easy chicken appetizer, air fryer chicken bites, baked chicken bites, stovetop chicken recipes