Description

Your New Weeknight Hero — Ready in Under 20 Minutes

Tender, juicy, golden-seared chicken bites coated in buttery garlic and herbs.
Minimal ingredients. Maximum flavor. Zero stress.
Perfect for rice bowls, wraps, salads, or straight from the skillet.

Ingredients

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1–1.5 inch pieces
1½ tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter (optional but highly recommended)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Fresh lemon juice, for finishing
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat chicken pieces completely dry.
Toss with:

Salt
Pepper
Italian herbs
Smoked paprika

Dry chicken = the best golden sear.

2. Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.

3. Sear the Chicken

Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Cook 3–4 minutes without touching.
Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

4. Add the Garlic & Butter

Reduce heat to low.
Push chicken to one side of the pan.
Add butter + garlic to the empty space; cook 30–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.
Toss all the chicken in the garlicky butter.

5. Finish with Lemon & Parsley

Remove from heat.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Sprinkle with parsley.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan—this is the secret to caramelized, not steamed, chicken.
Always reduce heat before adding garlic.
Use thighs for maximum juiciness and forgiveness.
Preheat the pan properly: shimmering oil = ready.