Of course! This is a fantastic combination. Tender, juicy grilled chicken paired with a rich, tangy, and garlicky creamy sauce is always a crowd-pleaser.
Here is a complete recipe with tips for perfect results every time.
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
This recipe breaks down into two easy parts: marinating and grilling the chicken, and whipping up the simple no-cook sauce.
Part 1: The Grilled Chicken Bites
These bites are flavorful, juicy, and have those beautiful grill marks.
Ingredients:
· 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 tablespoon lemon juice
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
· 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper (be generous!)
Instructions:
- Marinate: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, a good pinch of salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss until every piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or for best results, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Skewer (Optional but Recommended): Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes first to prevent burning. This makes flipping much easier.
- Grill: Place the chicken skewers (or loose bites) on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, without moving them, to get a good sear. The chicken is done when it’s firm to the touch and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This should take about 8-10 minutes total.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Part 2: The Creamy Garlic Sauce
This sauce is cool, creamy, and packed with fresh garlic flavor. It’s the perfect complement to the smoky, warm chicken.
Ingredients:
· 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
· 1/4 cup mayonnaise
· 2-3 cloves garlic, very finely minced or pressed (start with 2, add more if you love garlic!)
· 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
· 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
· 1-2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (to reach desired consistency)
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
- Thin: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred dipping consistency.
- Season: Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust—you might want more lemon, garlic, or herbs.
- Chill: For the best flavor, cover the sauce and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
· As an Appetizer: Serve the grilled chicken bites on a platter with the creamy garlic sauce in a bowl for dipping. They are perfect for parties!
· As a Main Course: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice, quinoa, or with a fresh green salad. It also makes a fantastic filling for wraps or pitas.
· Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a nice pop of color and freshness.
Chef’s Tips & Variations
· For Maximum Flavor: Don’t skip the marinating time. Even 20 minutes makes a big difference.
· No Grill? No Problem! You can cook the chicken bites in a hot cast-iron skillet or grill pan with a little oil. You can also bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
· Creamier Sauce: For a richer, more decadent sauce, substitute the Greek yogurt with all sour cream or even crème fraîche.
· Herb Twist: Try adding other fresh herbs like chives, tarragon, or basil to the sauce.
· Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce