Ingredients
Method
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.
Notes
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.
