Lemon Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

This delicious garlic Parmesan lemon chicken is a perfect blend of savory flavors and a little zesty kick. Whether served with a side of vegetables or over pasta, its sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Follow these easy steps for a flavorful, comforting meal!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced (1 teaspoon zest, 3 tablespoons juice)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Crushed red pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Step 1: Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt.
2. Step 2: In a 12-inch skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced about 1/2-inch apart. Cook for about 3 minutes or until lightly browned on one side.
3. Step 3: Flip the chicken pieces over and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, or until the other side is browned and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Stir in the lemon juice and let it combine with the garlic and butter for a few moments.
6. Step 6: Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Toss it in the lemon-garlic sauce to coat evenly.
7. Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, ensuring everything is well coated.
8. Step 8: Season with freshly ground black pepper and crushed red pepper, if desired, to add some extra heat.
9. Step 9: Serve the dish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 413
• Total Fat: 20g (26% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (46% DV)
• Cholesterol: 167mg (56% DV)
• Sodium: 587mg (26% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 39g (14% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 10g (37% DV)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 33g (67% DV)
• Vitamin C: 197mg (218% DV)
• Calcium: 165mg (13% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (19% DV)
• Potassium: 880mg (19% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Lemon Parmesan Chicken Bites

Lemon Parmesan Chicken Bites are a modern American adaptation of the classic Italian chicken dishes that combine citrus and cheese for a bright, savory flavor. While Parmesan cheese has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, pairing it with lemon and bite-sized chicken pieces became popular in home kitchens across the United States in the late 20th century. The dish reflects a trend of creating easy-to-cook, flavorful meals that are suitable for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Regional Variations

This dish shows some regional nuances depending on where it is prepared. In coastal states such as California, chefs often enhance the recipe with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, emphasizing lighter, fresher flavors. In the Midwest, the chicken bites might be coated lightly with breadcrumbs before cooking, adding a crunchier texture that appeals to comfort-food preferences. Southern variations sometimes incorporate a hint of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While Lemon Parmesan Chicken Bites share similarities with dishes like Chicken Piccata or Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, the differences lie in preparation and presentation. Unlike Chicken Piccata, which is served in a lemon-butter sauce over a full chicken breast, the bites are smaller, allowing for faster cooking and easier portioning. Compared to traditional Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, these bites do not rely on heavy breading, allowing the tangy lemon flavor to shine without overwhelming the palate.

Where It Is Usually Served

These chicken bites are highly versatile. They are often served as appetizers at parties, small gatherings, or buffets, but they also work as a main course when paired with pasta, rice, or fresh salads. Casual restaurants and family-friendly eateries frequently feature this dish because it appeals to a wide range of tastes and can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for both dine-in and takeout menus.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of lemon and Parmesan enhances the natural flavors of chicken without the need for heavy sauces or marinades.
• Serving chicken in bite-sized pieces is a technique borrowed from tapas-style dining, making it perfect for sharing or adding to salads.
• The dish gained popularity online in the early 2010s as food bloggers and recipe websites promoted quick, flavorful chicken recipes for home cooks.
• Parmesan cheese used in this recipe is typically aged for 1224 months, which provides a rich, nutty flavor that balances the acidity of lemon.
• Many home cooks experiment with adding garlic or crushed red pepper to enhance aroma and create a mild heat, giving the dish a customized twist.

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