One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Looking for a quick and easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites come together in just 17 minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. Tender, juicy chicken is seared until golden, then coated in a rich garlic butter and parmesan sauce for that irresistible restaurant quality flavor at home. Whether you serve over rice, pasta, or salad or offer it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this one-pan chicken recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Would you like to save this?
Enter your email below and I’ll send the recipe link straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get weekly tips, real-food recipes, and behind-the-scenes kitchen inspiration you won’t want to miss!
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly use and love.
What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are small, tender pieces of chicken that are seared until golden and coated in a rich garlic butter and parmesan sauce.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Ready in just 17 minutes – Perfect for busy nights.
- Made in one skillet – Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Versatile and meal-prep friendly – Serve them as an appetizer or main dish.
- Made with real ingredients – No heavily processed shortcuts.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Avocado oil – Helps the chicken brown beautifully and adds healthy fats.
- Chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tender texture.
- Kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper – The base seasoning blend that brings out the flavor of the chicken.
- Butter – Creates that rich, silky garlic-parmesan sauce.
- Fresh garlic – Adds bold, aromatic flavor to every bite.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese – The star of the dish that melts perfectly into the buttery sauce.
- Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
- (Optional) Red pepper flakes and extra parmesan – For a little heat and extra cheesy goodness when serving.
For the full list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
How to Shop for the Best Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – Choose skinless chicken breasts for lean, tender bites.
- Oil – Use olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing. Both add great flavor, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point, making it a good choice if you’re cooking over higher heat.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves make all the difference here. It give this dish its signature garlicky aroma and depth of flavor. Avoid jarred garlic, which can taste flat or acidic.
- Butter – Choose unsalted butter so you can better control the salt level in your dish.
- Parmesan cheese – Use freshly grated parmesan, not the pre-shredded kind. Fresh parmesan melts better, tastes richer, and blends beautifully into the sauce. A wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal.
- Parsley – Flat-leaf parsley has the best flavor.
Disclaimer: I share these ingredient tips based on my own experience and research. I am not a doctor or dietitian, and this information is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Step 1 – Before you start cooking, chop the fresh parsley, grate the parmesan cheese, and measure out your red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2 – In a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3 – Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, making sure they’re all about the same size so they cook evenly.
Step 4 – Season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use your hands to rub the seasoning in, or use a spatula or toss the pieces in a dish until they’re evenly coated.
Step 5 – Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6 – Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir continuously for 30–45 seconds, just until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 7 – Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and parsley over the chicken. Toss until evenly coated in the buttery sauce.
Step 8 – Serve immediately with extra parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Cut the chicken evenly – Make sure the pieces are all about the same size so they cook through at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give the chicken space to sear. If the pan is too full, the chicken will steam instead of getting that golden-brown color.
- Avoid over-stirring – Resist the urge to move it around too soon! Letting it cook undisturbed for a minute or two helps create that flavorful crust.
- Use freshly grated parmesan – It melts better and adds a richer, creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
- Watch the garlic closely – Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it once it hits the pan. Stir just until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds.
- Don’t overcook – Remove the chicken from the heat once it’s golden and cooked through as residual heat will continue to cook it slightly.
- Use a cast iron skillet – It heats evenly and gives the chicken the best sear with a beautiful golden-brown crust.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Let the chicken bites cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Variations You’ll Love
- Spicy version – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- Lemon garlic parmesan – Squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice or zest before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Herb lover’s twist – Mix in Italian seasoning, dried basil, or oregano with the garlic powder.
How to Reheat Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Stove – Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of butter until heated through.
- Microwave – Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Main dish – Serve over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes with roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus.
- Pasta – Toss into your favorite pasta with olive oil.
- Appetizer – Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing and a side of garlic aioli or ranch for dipping.
- Light meal – Add to a fresh salad or grain bowl with roasted veggies, avocado, and a sprinkle of extra parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great. They’re naturally juicier and a little more flavorful.
You can! Cook them as directed, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, rehear in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of butter until heated through.
Make sure your skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Yes, freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese (which often contains anti-caking agents). If possible, grate your own from a block.
One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon course ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Before you start cooking, chop the fresh parsley, grate the parmesan cheese, and measure out your red pepper flakes (if using).
- In a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, making sure they’re all about the same size so they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use your hands to rub the seasoning in, or use a spatula or toss the pieces in a dish until they’re evenly coated.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir continuously for 30–45 seconds, just until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and parsley over the chicken. Toss until evenly coated in the buttery sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
If you make this recipe, I’d love to know what you think! Share your photos or variations in the comments, or tag on Instagram or Facebook @awifeandherhome. Don’t forget to pin this recipe!
