Juicy Chicken with Creamy Sauce

This grilled chicken bites recipe has been my go-to solution for weeknight dinners that need to be quick but still impressive. The smoky seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy garlic sauce, creating a combination that's simple yet restaurant-worthy.

I first created this recipe during a summer when I was tired of the same old grilled chicken. My family now requests these bites at least twice a month, and guests always ask for the sauce recipe after trying it.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 inch cubes gives you the perfect bite-sized pieces that cook quickly and evenly
• Olive oil: Helps the spices stick to the chicken and prevents sticking to the grill
• Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and mild smoky flavor that makes these bites special
• Garlic powder: Infuses each piece with savory flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has on the grill
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and ensures the chicken isn't bland
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the smokiness
• Cayenne pepper: Optional but recommended for those who enjoy a gentle kick of heat

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Mayonnaise: Creates the rich base for the sauce; choose a good quality mayo for best results
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the texture
• Fresh garlic: Minced finely provides that unmistakable punch that makes this sauce irresistible
• Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and color; use flat leaf parsley for more intense flavor
• Lemon juice: Cuts through the richness and balances the creaminess
• Salt and pepper: For proper seasoning; never skip these final touches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine your chicken cubes with all the seasonings and olive oil in a bowl. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated by tossing gently with your hands or a spoon. Let the chicken sit with the seasonings while you heat the grill; this brief marination time makes a big difference in flavor development.

Preheat and Grill

Preheat and Grill:

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Wait until it's properly hot before adding the chicken; this ensures you get those beautiful char marks. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer giving them space to cook evenly. Grill for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side watching carefully as small pieces can cook quickly. Look for golden brown color with distinctive grill marks and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Prepare the Sauce

Prepare the Sauce:

While the chicken cooks mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still drizzlable. Take a moment to taste and adjust your seasonings adding more lemon juice for brightness or garlic for intensity if needed. Let the sauce sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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My favorite part of this recipe is actually the versatility of the sauce. I've started making double batches because my husband puts it on everything from sandwiches to roasted vegetables. The first time I served this at a family gathering, my brother-in-law who claims to dislike chicken asked for the recipe.

Storage Tips

The cooked chicken bites will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water and cover to prevent them from drying out. For best results, heat them in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave.

The sauce stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and actually improves in flavor after the first day as the garlic mellows and infuses throughout. Store it separately from the chicken and only combine when ready to serve.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and offer even more moisture and flavor. Simply adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take an extra minute or two.

For a lighter sauce option, substitute Greek yogurt for both the mayonnaise and sour cream. The tanginess of yogurt adds a refreshing quality that works especially well in summer months. You may want to add a touch more salt to balance the flavor.

Vegetarians can adapt this recipe using extra firm tofu or tempeh cut into cubes. Press the tofu well before marinating to remove excess moisture and achieve better texture when grilled.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal, or tuck them into warm pita bread with fresh veggies for a quick wrap.

For a low carb option, create a bowl with cauliflower rice, these chicken bites, avocado slices, and a drizzle of the garlic sauce. The combination of warm chicken with cool creamy avocado is particularly satisfying.

When entertaining, arrange the bites on a platter with colorful bell pepper strips, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes. Place the sauce in a small bowl in the center for an impressive yet effortless appetizer spread.

Pro Tips

• Threading the chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers before grilling makes them easier to manage and creates an attractive presentation
• Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for more even results
• For maximum flavor reserve a small portion of the spice mixture to sprinkle over the hot chicken immediately after grilling

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Common Recipe Questions

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the garlic sauce?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise in the creamy garlic sauce. It provides similar creaminess with added tanginess and fewer calories. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based mayo or a blend of avocado and olive oil with a splash of lemon juice.

→ How do I prevent the chicken bites from drying out?

To keep chicken bites juicy, don't overcook them—they only need about 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill. Consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts as they're more forgiving and naturally juicier. Properly marinating the chicken (even briefly) helps lock in moisture, while cooking in batches prevents overcrowding which can lead to steaming rather than grilling.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This is excellent for meal prep. Grill the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken in a microwave or skillet until just warm (avoid overcooking), then drizzle with the cold sauce or bring the sauce to room temperature.

→ What sides pair well with these chicken bites?

These versatile chicken bites pair beautifully with many sides. Try a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or warm pita. For a complete meal, serve with rice pilaf, couscous, or quinoa. The creamy garlic sauce also makes an excellent dressing for a side salad or drizzled over steamed vegetables.

→ Can I cook these chicken bites in the oven instead?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the seasoned chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While you won't get the same grill marks, you'll still have delicious, juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with the creamy garlic sauce.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe has just a mild kick from black pepper and paprika. The cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted to your heat preference. For a completely mild version, omit the cayenne entirely. If you enjoy spicy food, you can increase the cayenne or add red pepper flakes to both the chicken marinade and the sauce.