Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s fast, healthy, and versatile. The chicken pieces cook quickly, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of lemon and garlic gives the dish a fresh Mediterranean taste, and the oregano adds just the right amount of herbiness. I often serve these bites with rice, salad, or tucked into wraps, so they fit easily into any meal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice and zest of 1 lemon
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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I start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels and cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
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I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
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In a skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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I add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
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I stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
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I add the lemon juice and zest, tossing the chicken to coat evenly.
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I remove from heat and garnish with parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. The prep time is around 10 minutes, and the cook time is 10 minutes, so I can have it ready in just 20 minutes.
Variations
I like to switch up the flavors by adding red pepper flakes for heat or using lime instead of lemon for a slightly different tang. Sometimes I toss the cooked chicken with a little honey for a sweet-and-savory version. For a heartier dish, I serve it over pasta with a sprinkle of parmesan.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. It also reheats well in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, I often use boneless, skinless chicken thighs when I want juicier bites. They work perfectly with the same seasonings.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I sometimes marinate the chicken with the lemon, garlic, and oregano earlier in the day. It makes the flavor even stronger.
What should I serve with lemon garlic chicken bites?
I usually pair them with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. They’re also great in wraps or grain bowls.
Can I cook these in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes, I spread the chicken on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, tossing once halfway through.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
I check that the pieces are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
These lemon garlic chicken bites are a simple yet flavorful dish I can rely on any night of the week. I love how quickly they come together, and the fresh lemon and garlic always make them taste vibrant. Whether I serve them with sides, in wraps, or over pasta, they never fail to satisfy.
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in zesty lemon and garlic seasoning. A quick and flavorful dinner idea ready in minutes.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Pat chicken dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add lemon juice and zest, tossing to coat the chicken evenly.
Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Swap lime for lemon to change up the flavor.
For a sweet-savory twist, toss cooked chicken with a drizzle of honey.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat best in a skillet with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop (or Oven-Baked variation)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
