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Keto Garlic Butter Chicken Bites - Fast, Flavorful, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus wedges for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, keeps it keto and adds savoriness)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Dry chicken browns better and prevents steaming.
  2. Season generously: In a bowl, toss chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Coat evenly.
  3. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. Give it a minute to get hot—the oil should shimmer.
  4. Sear in batches: Add half the chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd. Cook 3–4 minutes without moving, until golden on one side, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken.
  5. Make the garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter to the empty skillet. Once melted and foamy, add minced garlic. Stir for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
  6. Deglaze and brighten: Add lemon juice to the pan and scrape up the browned bits. Those bits are pure flavor.
  7. Toss it all together: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat every piece in the garlic butter sauce. Cook 1 minute to warm through.
  8. Finish and serve: Turn off the heat. Stir in parsley and, if using, Parmesan. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon. Serve hot with your favorite low-carb side.