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Sweet and Smoky Chicken Bites Recipe

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4 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These quick and flavorful Chicken Bites are coated in a smoky, sweet spice rub and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet with butter, making a deliciously tender and juicy appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

Spice Mix

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Parsley, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix the spices: In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Set this spice blend aside to prepare the chicken.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, trimming away any excess fat or gristle to ensure even cooking.
  3. Coat the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the spice mixture and toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with the rub, allowing the flavors to infuse.
  4. Heat the skillet: Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until the oil is shimmering, about 1 minute, then reduce heat to medium to avoid burning the spices.
  5. Cook the chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for approximately 3 minutes until the bottom side is golden brown.
  6. Flip and finish cooking: Turn the chicken pieces over and cook for another 2 minutes or until the chicken is nearly cooked through with a nice sear on both sides.
  7. Add butter and coat: Add the unsalted butter to the pan and stir frequently for 1 to 3 minutes, allowing the chicken to become coated with melted butter and reach an internal temperature of 165˚F, ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the savory chicken bites hot for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken pieces are uniformly cut for even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165˚F for safe consumption.
  • Parsley garnish is optional but adds a fresh color and flavor contrast.
  • Cast-iron skillet helps achieve a great sear but a heavy-bottomed pan will also work.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences; more smoked paprika for smokiness or brown sugar for sweetness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/sweet-and-smoky-chicken-bites-recipe/