Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Asparagus is a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are seared to golden perfection and tossed with crisp asparagus in a rich garlic butter sauce. This low-carb, high-protein meal is satisfying, delicious, and ready in just 30 minutes.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)asparagussaltblack peppergarlic (minced)olive oilbutterItalian seasoningpaprikachicken broth (optional for extra sauce)lemon juice (optional for brightness)parsley (chopped, for garnish)
directions
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken bites to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add chopped asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Return chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. If desired, add a splash of chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing flavors to combine.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Include mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier bites.
Serve over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving for extra richness.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For best texture, avoid overcooking the asparagus during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep the ingredients in advance and cook when ready to serve.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can make it spicy with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter or more olive oil instead.
What kind of skillet works best?
A cast iron or stainless steel skillet gives the best sear on the chicken.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Asparagus is the ultimate fast and flavorful dinner. With juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will enjoy.
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Bites and Asparagus (30-Minutes)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Asparagus is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken cubes are sautéed in garlic butter and paired with crisp asparagus for a satisfying dish ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Add asparagus and cook for 4-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the skillet, toss with asparagus, and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Optional: Add lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Cut asparagus evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust garlic to your taste preference.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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