Description
Crispy golden chicken bites bring delightful Mediterranean flavors straight to dinner tables. Garlic, herbs, and zesty lemon create an irresistible combination that will make you crave these succulent morsels with every single bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Meticulously cleanse chicken pieces using paper towels, transferring them into a spacious mixing vessel to ensure moisture removal.
- Cascade extra virgin olive oil across the chicken, then sprinkle a harmonious blend of aromatic spices including garlic powder, vibrant paprika, zesty onion powder, fragrant oregano, pristine salt, and cracked black pepper.
- Gently massage the seasonings into the chicken, ensuring each morsel receives an even, luxurious coating of flavor-packed spices.
- Activate a large skillet over medium-high thermal intensity, creating an ideal searing environment for the seasoned protein.
- Carefully arrange chicken pieces in a precise single layer, avoiding overcrowding to promote perfect golden caramelization.
- Allow chicken to sizzle undisturbed for approximately 3-4 minutes, developing a rich, crispy exterior that seals in succulent juices.
- Flip each piece with precision, continuing cooking until internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F and exterior achieves a gorgeous amber-brown hue.
- During the final cooking moment, introduce a whisper of butter to elevate richness and create a glossy, indulgent finish.
- Remove skillet from heat, letting chicken rest momentarily to redistribute internal moisture.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of verdant color and herbaceous brightness.
- Present immediately alongside complementary dipping sauces or preferred accompaniments for a delectable culinary experience.
Notes
- Moisture Matters: Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Seasoning Hack: Create a spice blend in advance and store in an airtight container for quick, consistent flavor every time you cook chicken bites.
- Temperature Control: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly and achieve perfect caramelization without burning.
- Diet-Friendly Modifications: Swap butter for olive oil to make the recipe dairy-free, or use coconut aminos instead of salt for a lower-sodium version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg