Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Perfect Appetizer or Main Course

Grilled chicken bites are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a protein-packed snack. Paired with a creamy garlic sauce, these tender and juicy chicken bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making grilled chicken bites, along with the creamy garlic sauce that complements them perfectly. We’ll also provide tips for achieving the best results, including the ideal cooking time and temperature.

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Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken Bites:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (optional, for thinning the sauce)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or buttermilk to achieve your desired consistency. Cover the sauce and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). If you’re using a gas grill, set it to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn until they’re covered with white ash.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

1. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water to prevent burning.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Bites

1. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. The total cooking time should be about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is lightly charred and caramelized.
2. Remove the skewers from the grill and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the grilled chicken bites on a platter and serve with the creamy garlic sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

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Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Bites

1. Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure the chicken cubes are roughly the same size to promote even cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook: Chicken can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the grill and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
3. Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, cumin, or chili powder.
4. Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken bites on a stovetop grill pan or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken bites with creamy garlic sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Appetizer: Serve the chicken bites on skewers with the sauce as a dip for a crowd-pleasing party snack.
• Main Course: Pair the chicken bites with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Wrap or Sandwich: Stuff the chicken bites into pita bread, tortillas, or sandwich rolls, and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce for a quick and satisfying lunch.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day ahead. Store both in the refrigerator until ready to cook and serve.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are more forgiving on the grill and tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts. They also have a richer flavor, which pairs well with the creamy garlic sauce.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover grilled chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The creamy garlic sauce can be stored separately for up to 5 days.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your mayonnaise and sour cream to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.

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Conclusion

Grilled chicken bites with creamy garlic sauce are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a tasty appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. With the right marinade, proper grilling techniques, and a creamy, garlicky sauce, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor!

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Bonus Recipe: Grilled Vegetable Skewers

If you’re looking to add a healthy and colorful side dish to your grilled chicken bites, try these easy grilled vegetable skewers.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 zucchini, sliced into 1-inch rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 8-10 cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C).
2. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors for a vibrant presentation.
3. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve alongside the grilled chicken bites for a complete and balanced meal.

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Enjoy your culinary adventure with these grilled chicken bites and creamy garlic sauce. Happy cooking