Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites – A Quick, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dinner
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that’s bursting with flavor, these Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are just what you need! Tender chunks of chicken are pan-seared to golden perfection, then tossed in a buttery garlic sauce with a bright splash of fresh lemon juice.
It’s a simple,s — perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious meal without the fuss. Fresh garlic bulbs
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies, making it a versatile staple for your weekly meal rotation.
Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Optional: chili flakes or fresh parsley
Method (Air Fryer)
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, pepper, salt, and oregano.
- Add chicken bites and toss well to coat. Marinate 10–30 minutes if time allows.
- Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- Arrange chicken in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley and extra lemon juice if desired.
Method (Stovetop)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil.
- Add chicken in a single layer.
- Cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes
- Add to wraps or salads
- Pair with roasted veggies or garlic yogurt sauce
How to Serve
These chicken bites are incredibly versatile — here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve over mashed potatoes for a cozy comfort meal.
- Pair with jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the buttery sauce.
- Toss with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick pasta dinner.
- Add to a fresh green salad or grain bowl for a lighter option.
- Wrap in warm pita or tortillas with lettuce and tzatziki for easy meal prep wraps.
Pro Tips
- Dry chicken = crisp sear. Moisture prevents browning, so pat the pieces dry before cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, freshest flavor — bottled juice won’t have the same taste.
- Don’t overcook. Chicken breast cooks quickly and stays juicy if removed once it hits 160°F.
- Add some heat. Red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne make a nice spicy version.
- Make it ahead. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the
Final Thoughts
These Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are proof that weeknight dinners don’t need to be complicated.
Every bite is tender, juicy, and coated in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce that’s downright irresistible.
It’s quick, affordable, and sure to become one of your go-to recipes for busy days.
