Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites

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### **Ingredients**

– **1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts**, cut into bite-sized pieces
– **3 garlic cloves**, minced
– **2 tbsp olive oil**
– **Juice of 1 lemon**
– **Zest of 1 lemon** (optional for extra flavor)
– **1 tsp dried oregano** (or Italian seasoning)
– **1/2 tsp smoked paprika** (optional for a smoky twist)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish)

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### **How to Make Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites**

1. **Prep the Chicken**: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika for an added smoky note.

2. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

3. **Cook the Chicken**: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. **Make the Sauce**: Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.

5. **Combine and Finish**: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon-garlic sauce. Sprinkle with oregano and stir well.

6. **Garnish and Serve**: Add a touch of fresh parsley and lemon zest for extra flavor and presentation. Serve hot.

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### **Tips for Success**

– **Use fresh lemon**: Freshly squeezed juice gives the dish a bright, tangy flavor that bottled lemon juice can’t match.
– **Don’t overcrowd the pan**: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
– **Adjust the garlic**: Feel free to add more garlic for a bolder flavor or less if you prefer a milder taste.
– **Try different herbs**: Swap oregano for thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a new flavor profile.

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### **How to Serve**

Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with various sides. Here are some ideas:
– **Over rice or quinoa**: Let the tangy sauce soak into the grains for a satisfying meal.
– **With roasted vegetables**: Pair with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli for a healthy dinner.
– **In a salad**: Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing meal.
– **As a party snack**: Serve with toothpicks for a flavorful finger food option.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the natural flavors of chicken while keeping it tender and juicy. Lemon adds brightness and acidity, while garlic provides a deep, savory richness. The olive oil ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful, while the herbs and seasonings tie everything together.

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### **Conclusion**

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a dish to impress your guests, **Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites** deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. They’re light, healthy, and incredibly delicious—making them a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Give them a try today and savor the perfect balance of zesty lemon and savory garlic!