Dive into the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Asparagus, a dish that perfectly balances tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a light lunch, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Asparagus:
- In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is well combined.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken and asparagus to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Asparagus as a standalone dish or pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh Asparagus: Choose fresh, firm asparagus for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overcooking to maintain its vibrant green color and slight crunch.
- Zesty Flavor: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your preference for a more pronounced lemon flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from the asparagus, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
- Flavorful and Light: The garlic butter and lemon combination adds a burst of flavor without being too heavy, making this dish a light yet flavorful meal.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Asparagus is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Its quick preparation and nutritious ingredients make it an ideal choice for a delicious and healthy meal any day of the week. Try this recipe today and enjoy a perfect balance of savory chicken, fresh asparagus, and zesty lemon garlic butter sauce.