These Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are a flavorful, bite-sized dish packed with the vibrant zing of fresh lemon and the savory warmth of garlic. Tender and juicy with golden, lightly crisped edges, they’re quick to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a main course or an appetizer. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are simple to make yet deeply flavorful, thanks to a zesty marinade that infuses every bite. The balance of citrus and garlic, paired with herbs and olive oil, creates a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. Whether you’re serving them with rice, tossing them into a salad, or skewering them for a party platter, these chicken bites adapt easily to your menu and come together in under an hour.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Marinate the chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix until evenly coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for stronger flavor). -
Cook the chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer, without crowding the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Work in batches if necessary. -
Serve:
Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Marinate Time: 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
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Total Time: 55 minutes
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Servings: 4
Variations
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
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Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary in place of oregano for different herbal notes.
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Grilled Option: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning once.
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Citrus Blend: Combine lemon juice with a splash of orange or lime juice for a twist on the marinade.
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Yogurt Marinade: Add a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and tangy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work well and offer a juicier texture.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes is sufficient, but marinating for up to 2 hours provides deeper flavor.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely—cook the chicken and store it in the fridge. Reheat as needed for quick meals.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until fully cooked.
What’s the best way to serve these chicken bites?
Serve with rice, salad, roasted vegetables, or as part of a wrap or sandwich.
Can I freeze the chicken?
You can freeze the raw marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are a quick and flavorful dish made with juicy chicken pieces marinated in fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or party appetizers, this easy skillet recipe delivers bold citrusy flavor and savory goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken pieces in a single layer for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Cook in batches if needed.
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Garnish and Serve: Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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A quick 30-minute marinade still packs great flavor.
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Pairs well with roasted veggies, rice, salad, or dipping sauces like tzatziki.
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Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat before serving.
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