Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus (Ready in 20 Minutes)
Looking for a fast, healthy, and tasty dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? You’re not alone, Many people feel too tired or too busy to cook after a long day. That’s why this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus recipe is perfect. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend all night cooking. Looking for a fast, healthy, and tasty dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? You might also love this Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wrap, another quick, one-pan favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best!)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Easy Swaps:
- No chicken? Try turkey or tofu.
- No olive oil? Use avocado oil or ghee.
- Want it lighter? Use half the butter or mix in a little Greek yogurt.
Time Needed
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prep Everything
Wash and trim the asparagus. Cut the chicken into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly. Mince your garlic and set everything close by.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Pro Tip: Don’t crowd the pan. If needed, cook in two batches so the chicken gets nice and crispy.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Asparagus
Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Melt the butter in the empty space, then add the garlic. Cook for just 30 seconds until it smells amazing.
Now add the asparagus. Mix everything together and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the asparagus is bright green and just tender.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Finish
Drizzle lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Stir everything together so the flavors mix well.
And that’s it! Your garlic butter chicken bites are ready to enjoy.
What to Serve with This Dish
This meal is great on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even better:
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
- Add a side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread goes perfectly to soak up the buttery sauce
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
These numbers may change a bit depending on the ingredients you use, but it’s still a healthy and balanced dish.
Healthier Options
Want to make it even lighter? Here are some easy ways:
- Use less butter or a light butter blend
- Swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu
- Add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for more fiber
Looking for more low-carb options? Try this Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole, it’s creamy, filling, and guilt-free.
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers? No problem
- Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.
- Meal Prep Tip: Cut the chicken and asparagus ahead of time to save effort on busy nights.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Chicken: Cook just until the juices run clear. Don’t let it dry out.
- Burning Garlic: Garlic burns fast. Only cook it for 30 seconds on low heat.
- Crowded Pan: A packed pan steams the food instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus recipe is a total weeknight hero. It’s quick, full of flavor, and healthy too. Even picky eaters love the buttery, garlicky sauce and tender chicken.
Try it out tonight and let us know what you think. Did you add your own twist? Share your tips and ideas in the comments.
