These Easy Grilled Chicken Bites are juicy and full of flavor! They’re perfect for a quick meal or a fancy snack. Plus, they come with a creamy garlic sauce that’s super tasty!
I love making these chicken bites for dinner with friends. They disappear fast, and who doesn’t love dipping in that garlic sauce? Just try not to eat them all before the others arrive! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work best. Chicken thighs have more flavor and stay juicier, while breasts are leaner. You could use turkey as an alternative, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: A great choice for grilling, but you can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. If you want added flavor, try using garlic-infused oil.
Spices: Paprika and garlic powder give a lovely taste. Feel free to switch paprika for chili powder for some heat! Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder if you prefer, just use a little less.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess to the sauce. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a dairy-free yogurt or a vegan mayo. Plain almond or coconut yogurt works well!
How Do You Grill Chicken Bites Perfectly?
Grilling chicken might seem tricky, but the secret is all in the prep and cooking! Ensure your grill is hot before you add the chicken bites, so they get nice charred marks and stay juicy.
- Marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors soak in. Longer marination makes it even better!
- Preheat the grill or grill pan. A hotter surface means better searing!
- Space them out on the grill. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – 165°F (75°C) is your target.
Let them rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps keep them juicy when you dig in!
Easy Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 10 minutes for grilling. Allow for an additional 15 minutes to marinate the chicken, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the fridge for even more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate or surface to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken Bites:
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken bites on it, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking. Grill the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks.
4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the sauce is smooth. If you like, add some finely chopped parsley or chives for extra freshness and flavor.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken bites are thoroughly cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the hot grilled chicken bites with the creamy garlic sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Your flavorful, tender grilled chicken bites with that luscious garlic dip are ready to be enjoyed! Happy eating!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method—submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for quick thawing.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for the chicken to be safely cooked through. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear and that there is no pink in the center.
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, as ingredients may separate when stored.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They make for a great snack or quick meal!
