Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce offer a delightful combination of smoky, charred flavors and rich, velvety indulgence. Each bite-sized piece of chicken is grilled to perfection, boasting a crispy, caramelized exterior while remaining irresistibly juicy on the inside. The smoky aroma of the grilled meat is complemented by a luscious, cheesy garlic sauce that adds a creamy, savory touch. This recipe is ideal for those who crave bold flavor without sacrificing tenderness or richness, making it a favorite for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper
  
  

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  
  

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a nice char and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally until it begins to simmer. Lower the heat and add mozzarella and parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Transfer the grilled chicken bites into a serving dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a main course. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It's also perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380 kcal

• Protein: ~30g

• Carbohydrates: ~6g

• Fats: ~26g

• Saturated Fat: ~12g

• Fiber: ~1g

• Sugar: ~2g

• Sodium: ~450mg
  
  

(Values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.)