Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Asparagus Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sizzling sound of garlic butter chicken bites hitting a hot skillet, the aroma of garlic mingling with golden seared chicken making it impossible to resist a taste before dinner’s even served. Pair that with tender-crisp asparagus, and you’ve got a weeknight winner that's equal parts delicious and lightning fast.

I first made this recipe on a whim during springtime, when asparagus is at its peak and I was craving something quick but satisfying. Since then, it’s become a go-to in our household, especially on nights when time is tight but taste still matters.

It’s packed with flavor, loaded with lean protein and greens, and comes together in under 30 minutes—all in one pan. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Asparagus

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite skillet dinner. These garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—even on your busiest nights.

First off, this recipe is so fast. From start to finish, you’re looking at around 25 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to decide on takeout, and it’s way more satisfying.

It’s also a low-carb, high-protein meal that doesn’t feel like “diet food.” Whether you're eating clean or just want something light yet filling, this dish ticks all the boxes.

If you’re feeding a family or trying to meal prep for the week, this recipe scales beautifully. Double the chicken, grab a larger skillet, and you’re set.

And don’t forget how versatile it is. Not feeling asparagus? Swap in green beans, broccoli, or even zucchini. You can also add potatoes or rice to stretch it into a more filling dish.

With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this one's bound to become a regular in your rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this garlic butter chicken recipe lies in its simple ingredients. Each one brings its own flavor and texture to the dish, creating something that's way more than the sum of its parts.

Let’s start with the chicken. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but boneless thighs also work if you want something extra juicy and flavorful. Cut them into small, even-sized cubes so they cook quickly and evenly.

The real star of this dish is the garlic butter. Freshly minced garlic is sautéed in butter to create a rich, savory base that coats every bite. Don’t skimp on the garlic here—it's what gives this dish its signature aroma and depth.

Next up, asparagus. Choose fresh, firm spears with tightly closed tips. Snap off the woody ends and cut the spears into thirds or halves depending on their size. They cook quickly and add the perfect crisp-tender contrast to the chicken.

A touch of paprika and Italian seasoning adds a subtle warmth and herby aroma that rounds everything out. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste—smoked paprika gives it a deeper flavor if you’re into that!

All you really need equipment-wise is a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet. A wooden spoon or spatula helps with easy sautéing, and a pair of tongs makes it easy to turn the chicken bites for an even sear.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Asparagus

Creating this mouthwatering meal is as simple as it gets. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, trimming off any excess fat. Season the pieces generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. You want each piece well-coated to lock in flavor.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust, then stir and cook until all sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, scraping up the flavorful browned bits left behind by the chicken. Add your minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds—until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the butter with bold garlic flavor.

Toss in the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender. You want it to still have a bit of bite—overcooking will make it mushy.

Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together, making sure the chicken is well coated in that luscious garlic butter. Let it all cook together for another minute or two to let the flavors mingle.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is golden and juicy, the asparagus is vibrant, and everything is coated in that rich, buttery sauce.

Storage Options

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), they store beautifully and make a perfect meal prep option.

Store the cooled chicken and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 4 days, and the flavors only get better as they meld together.

To freeze, portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the asparagus may soften a bit when reheated, but it’ll still taste great.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for the best texture, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the sauce if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is how easy it is to customize. You can tweak it to suit your mood, what’s in your fridge, or dietary needs.

Try swapping the asparagus for other quick-cooking veggies like broccoli florets, zucchini, or snap peas. This gives the dish a whole new vibe while keeping that fresh, green element.

Want to add some carbs? Stir in cooked rice, orzo, or even small roasted potatoes to make it more filling. A drizzle of lemon juice over the top adds brightness and makes it feel like a full meal.

If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for the garlic butter. It’ll still taste fantastic—just a little lighter.

For extra richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of cream or grated parmesan at the end. It melts into the sauce and adds a savory, cheesy finish that’s totally crave-worthy.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with herbs, too. Fresh parsley, thyme, or even a bit of rosemary can bring a new dimension of flavor to this already delicious dish.

Next time you're short on time but still want something satisfying and homemade, give this garlic butter chicken and asparagus recipe a go. It’s fast, flavorful, and flexible—everything a weeknight dinner should be.

Print