Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Craving a tasty and flavorful appetizer or main dish? These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect solution! Tender, juicy chicken cubes are seasoned and grilled to perfection, then paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce that takes the flavor to the next level. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, this recipe will be a hit at any gathering or family dinner!
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Bites:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the 1 lb chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them until they’re evenly coated in the seasoning mix.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can use a grill pan if you’re cooking indoors.
- Lightly grease the grill grates with a little oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Bites
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers if you prefer (or you can grill them directly on the grill).
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning the skewers or chicken pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through and have a nice char on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken bites are cooked, remove them from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
- Serve the grilled chicken bites with the creamy garlic sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect combination of smoky grilled chicken and a smooth, rich garlic sauce. The seasoning on the chicken gives it a slightly smoky, savory flavor with just the right amount of heat, while the creamy garlic sauce provides the perfect balance. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or paired with a salad or side dish for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Marinate longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours or even overnight in the fridge.
- Grilling options: If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken bites in a cast-iron skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat.
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to adjust the creamy garlic sauce by adding a bit of hot sauce for extra heat or a teaspoon of dijon mustard for tang.
- Make it low-carb: Pair the chicken bites with a zucchini noodle salad or serve over a bed of greens to keep it low-carb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the creamy garlic sauce a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using thighs, as they may take a little longer to cook.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Absolutely! If you prefer to bake the chicken, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until fully cooked.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Marinade: Another great grilled chicken recipe with a light and refreshing lemon herb marinade.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites: Bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a garlic parmesan sauce that’s perfect for dipping.
- Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce: Golden, crispy chicken tenders served with a tangy honey mustard dipping sauce.
