Juicy Chicken Cubes with a Bold Garlic Finish
These Grilled Chicken Bites are tender, lightly charred, and seasoned with paprika, garlic, and optional cayenne for a smoky-spicy kick. Served with a zesty garlic sauce made from mayo, sour cream, fresh parsley, and lemon—it’s a finger-licking appetizer or main dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day.
A simple, flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍗 Juicy Chicken Cubes: Perfectly grilled for tender texture and golden char.
- 🧄 Garlic Lovers’ Dream: The creamy sauce delivers bold garlic flavor with a tangy finish.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Marinate, grill, mix the sauce, and serve—no complicated steps.
- 🥣 Great for Dipping: Ideal with warm pita, veggies, or crusty bread.
- 🎉 Perfect for Sharing: Great at parties, picnics, or as a weeknight snack.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Chicken Bites:
- 450g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts , cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil (or avocado oil for high-heat grilling)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional – for a spicy finish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 120 ml (½ cup) mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 60 ml (¼ cup) sour cream (or crème fraîche for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic , minced (or ½ tsp garlic paste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley , chopped (or chives for variation)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or lime for a twist)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, toss chicken cubes with:
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Cayenne (if using)
until fully coated.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes while preheating the grill.
Step 2: Preheat Grill or Skillet
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat .
Oil the grates or pan lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Bites
Skewer the chicken cubes (optional) or cook them directly on the grill.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side , turning once, until golden and fully cooked through.
Internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) .
Let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Minced garlic
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
until smooth and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Transfer grilled chicken bites to a platter.
Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Each bite brings together:
- Smoky, charred chicken cubes
- Bold, garlicky creamy finish
- And that perfect herb-lemon balance
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape and skewer chicken without sticking.
- 🥣 Sauce Swap Magic: Use ranch dressing or aioli if preferred.
- 🌶️ Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
- 🥗 Pair with Greens: These bites are great over salads or rice bowls.
- ❄️ Meal Prep Friendly: Cook in bulk and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect with warm pita, naan, or crusty bread for dipping.
- Great with roasted vegetables, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
- Ideal as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner entrée.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):
(With regular sauce – per serving)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~3g
- Fat: ~16g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~1g
These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce prove that grilled chicken can be anything but boring. With their smoky char, bold garlic sauce, and juicy finish—they’re a must-bake (well… must-grill!) for anyone who loves bold, savory flavors.
