Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner idea? Look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken bites with crisp asparagus in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party, offering both flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients Needed
For this delightful dish, you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450 grams) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped for garnish
These ingredients not only provide a balanced meal but are also packed with nutritional benefits, including protein from the chicken and vitamins from the asparagus.
Preparing the Chicken and Asparagus
Start by thoroughly cleaning the chicken breast. Pat it dry with paper towels before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. For the asparagus, trim the woody ends and cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces. This preparation ensures that both the chicken and asparagus cook evenly and quickly.
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the asparagus pieces. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: Lower the heat to medium, add the butter and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter. Add the lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot.
Flavor Enhancements
For added flavor, consider incorporating:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.
- A splash of white wine during the garlic butter preparation for a richer taste.
- Additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus with:
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- A fresh garden salad to add more greens to your plate.
- Crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
For an appealing presentation, arrange the chicken and asparagus neatly on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
Health Benefits
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Asparagus, on the other hand, is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber, which support overall health and digestion.