Tzatziki sauce is a must-have with Greek Chicken Bites, offering a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced chicken. The combination of Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice is the perfect balance to elevate each bite.
A Greek salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese adds a crunchy, colorful contrast, while a sprinkle of oregano ties the flavors together.
Soft, warm pita bread serves as the perfect vessel for dipping or stuffing with chicken and tzatziki, providing a chewy texture that complements the dish beautifully. These pairings create a fresh, satisfying, and flavorful meal.
Let’s talk about Greek Chicken Bites. If you’re someone who loves satisfying finger foods that carry a punch of flavor, then you’re in for a treat. Inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, these bites are full of marinated chicken pieces seared to perfection.
I’ll let you in on a little secret: have you ever noticed how the simplest ingredients can come together for a memorable dish?
A tangy lemon, fresh herbs, and just a hint of spice transform everyday chicken into something extraordinary. Not only are these chicken bites full of zest, but they’re also a fun dish to share with family and friends at any gathering.
Greek Chicken Bites are tender pieces of chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of spices, then grilled or sautéed.
They are usually served as appetizers or as a main course, typically with sides like tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad. The flavor profile is bright and Mediterranean, making them a delicious option any time of year.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Simple Ingredients You don’t need to scour the grocery store for exotic ingredients. The recipe calls for everyday pantry staples, including chicken, olive oil, garlic, and spices. Even if you find yourself in the midst of a kitchen emergency, chances are you already have what you need.
2. Quick Preparation In a world where time runs short, this recipe shines. With just a few steps, you can have these bites ready in under 30 minutes. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something quick and delicious.
3. Versatile Serving Options Greek Chicken Bites can stand alone or be adapted for various occasions. Serve them as a meal, a snack while watching sports, or as party appetizers. They adapt well to different settings and dietary preferences.
4. Packed with Flavor Each bite bursts with a medley of Mediterranean flavors. From the lemony zest to the fresh herbs, these chicken bites offer a taste journey that makes them irresistible. You won't be able to eat just one!
Ingredients You'll Need to Make This Dish
The ingredients for Greek Chicken Bites are simple but impactful. Here’s what you’ll gather:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 lb. boneless chicken breast pieces, cut into 1-inch chunks (approximately 2 breasts)
1/4 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
Zest and juice of one lemon
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How To Make This Greek Chicken Bites
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated.
Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. If time allows, three hours to overnight takes the flavor to another level.
Step 2: Preheat Your Pan
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. A non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron pan works best. Allow the pan to get hot to achieve a nice sear on your chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet. Sauté for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat. Transfer it to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. These bites are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks
Here are several tips to ensure your chicken bites come out perfectly.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. Don’t skip it!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook in batches. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
Let the Chicken Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for at least five minutes. This prevents juices from running out when you cut into it.
Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to play with different herbs, spices, or even yogurt marinades.
Test with a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend. It ensures you cook chicken perfectly every time.
Nutrition Information
Greek Chicken Bites Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Storing leftovers is straightforward. Place the chicken bites in an airtight container once they have cooled. They can last in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for several minutes.
What Sides Would Complement Greek Chicken Bites?
Here are three side dishes that would go perfectly with Greek Chicken Bites:
1. Roasted Vegetables Roasted vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions, add a splash of color and nutrients. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender. The sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs beautifully with the zest of the chicken.
2. Lemon Rice Pilaf Fluffy rice flavored with lemon and herbs is a fantastic side. It absorbs the chicken’s flavors while providing a comforting base. Just sauté some onions in olive oil before adding rice, broth, and lemon zest. Cook until fluffy and serve alongside the chicken.
3. Grilled Asparagus Lightly charred asparagus spears offer a crisp texture and fresh flavor. Simply drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender. The slight bitterness of asparagus balances the richness of the chicken.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Don’t have all the ingredients? No worries. Here are some easy swaps:
1. Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful in this recipe.
2. Veggie Broth Instead of Wine For a non-alcoholic option, replace white wine with low-sodium vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.
3. Applesauce Instead of Olive Oil For a lower-fat alternative, you can use unsweetened applesauce in the marinade to keep the chicken moist.
4. Dried Thyme Instead of Oregano While oregano adds classic flavor, thyme can provide a lovely twist if you don’t have oregano on hand.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Bites are more than a dish; they’re an experience.
Each bite carries a bit of sunshine from the Mediterranean. Whether enjoyed at a picnic, party, or family dinner, they consistently make an impact. The simplicity of the recipe, ease of preparation, and ability to adapt make these bites a staple in my kitchen.
As a food enthusiast, I encourage you to embrace the flavors of Greece and enjoy these delightful morsels. Fire up that skillet or grill, gather your loved ones, and share some culinary joy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Let’s talk about Greek Chicken Bites. If you’re someone who loves satisfying finger foods that carry a punch of flavor, then you’re in for a treat. Inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, these bites are full of marinated chicken pieces seared to perfection.
Ingredients
2tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1lb. 1 boneless chicken breast pieces, cut into 1-inch chunks (approximately 2 breasts)
1/4cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
Zest and juice of one lemon
2cloves garlic, finely minced
1teaspoon kosher salt
1/2teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1/2teaspoon smoked paprika
1tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated.
2
Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. If time allows, three hours to overnight takes the flavor to another level.
Step 2: Preheat Your Pan
3
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. A non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron pan works best. Allow the pan to get hot to achieve a nice sear on your chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
4
Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet. Sauté for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
5
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat. Transfer it to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. These bites are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories184kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat6.2g10%
Saturated Fat1.1g6%
Cholesterol86mg29%
Sodium725mg31%
Total Carbohydrate5g2%
Dietary Fiber1g4%
Protein26g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are several tips to ensure your chicken bites come out perfectly.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. Don’t skip it!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook in batches. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
Let the Chicken Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for at least five minutes. This prevents juices from running out when you cut into it.
Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to play with different herbs, spices, or even yogurt marinades.
Test with a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend. It ensures you cook chicken perfectly every time.
Keywords:
Greek Chicken Bites Recipe
Maria George
Registered Dietitian & Cookbook Author
Maria George is a cookbook author and registered dietitian, passionate about merging gourmet cuisine with nutrition through her blog Gourmet And Food. Based in Illinois, she draws on her rich culinary background to create elegant, approachable recipes that celebrate quality ingredients and creativity in the kitchen. Maria’s goal is to inspire food lovers of all levels to explore gourmet cooking and enjoy the art of dining.