Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce because they’re so flavorful and satisfying. The chicken bites are seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, creating a perfect blend of spices that give them a smoky, savory taste. The creamy garlic sauce is rich and velvety, perfectly complementing the juicy grilled chicken. This dish is versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or a main course, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken Bites:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the chicken is well coated.

2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Skewer the chicken pieces if desired, or place them directly on the grill. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

3. Set Aside: Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the heat and set aside.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.

2. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. For added freshness, sprinkle in some chopped fresh parsley.

Assemble:

1. Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken bites on a plate and serve with the creamy garlic sauce on the side for dipping. You can also drizzle the sauce over the chicken for extra creaminess.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion size. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and grilling time is about 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a party appetizer.

Variations

These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are highly customizable:

• Spicy Version: Add a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick, or mix some into the creamy garlic sauce.

• Herb Variations: Add dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the chicken seasoning for extra flavor.

• Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo and cashew cream or another dairy-free substitute for the creamy sauce.

• Add Veggies: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers. The grilled chicken will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge, and the sauce will stay fresh for about 2-3 days as well. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat, and serve with the remaining creamy garlic sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They will be juicier and slightly more flavorful than chicken breasts, so feel free to swap them in for a different texture and taste.

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the creamy garlic sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the sauce even more flavorful.

Can I grill the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve these grilled chicken bites with?

These grilled chicken bites are perfect with crispy fries, a side salad, grilled veggies, or rice. You can also serve them as a snack with some dipping sauces or on top of a light pasta.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked and golden. Just be sure to flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are an irresistible combination of juicy, tender chicken and a rich, flavorful garlic sauce. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for a variety of occasions—from casual dinners to party appetizers. Whether you serve them with a side or as a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!