Grilled Chicken with Garlic Sauce

This grilled chicken bites recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed appetizer that's guaranteed to impress. The succulent pieces of tender chicken paired with a rich, garlicky sauce create the perfect combination for any gathering or weeknight dinner.

I created this recipe when planning a last minute backyard barbecue with neighbors. The chicken bites disappeared in minutes and now my family requests them nearly every weekend during grilling season.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose fresh never frozen for the juiciest results
• Olive oil: helps the seasonings stick and prevents sticking on the grill
• Paprika: adds beautiful color and mild smoky flavor
• Garlic powder: infuses flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
• Salt and black pepper: essential for enhancing all the other flavors
• Cayenne pepper: optional but adds a pleasant warmth without overwhelming heat

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Mayonnaise: creates the rich base for the sauce
• Sour cream: adds tanginess and lightens the texture
• Fresh garlic cloves: provides intense aromatic flavor
• Chopped parsley: brings color and fresh herbaceous notes
• Lemon juice: balances the richness with bright acidity
• Salt and pepper: seasoning is essential for a well rounded sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken

Step 1:

Cut chicken breasts into even 1 inch cubes to ensure consistent cooking. Place cubes in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle all seasonings over the chicken and use your hands to massage the spices into each piece ensuring complete coverage. Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Prepare the Grill

Step 2:

Heat your grill to medium heat around 375°F. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Allow the grill to fully preheat before adding chicken for perfect sear marks and even cooking.

Grill the Chicken

Step 3:

Place seasoned chicken cubes directly on the grill or use a grill basket if pieces are small. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side turning once or twice until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have nice grill marks and be slightly charred on the edges but still juicy inside.

Create the Sauce

Step 4:

While chicken cooks combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed adding more lemon juice for brightness or garlic for intensity. Allow sauce to rest for at least 5 minutes letting flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Step 5:

Arrange hot chicken bites on a serving platter. Either drizzle the sauce over the top or serve it alongside in a small bowl for dipping. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Pin it

The minced fresh garlic in the sauce is absolutely non negotiable in my kitchen. I once tried to substitute with more garlic powder when I ran out of fresh and while still good it lacked that punchy aromatic quality that makes this sauce so addictive. My husband now grows garlic in our garden specifically for this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

This chicken can be seasoned up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. The longer marinating time actually improves flavor development. The sauce can also be prepared up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container. Just give it a quick stir before serving as ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken bites work wonderfully in multiple settings. Thread them onto skewers with colorful vegetables for an elegant presentation. Serve alongside a Greek salad and warm pita bread for a Mediterranean inspired meal. For a hearty option place over rice or quinoa and drizzle with extra sauce. They also make excellent protein additions to wraps or salads for lunch the next day.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe creates a delicious foundation but feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles. Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara for dipping. Try a curry powder blend in the chicken seasoning paired with a yogurt based sauce. For a southwestern twist use chili powder and cumin in place of paprika and serve with avocado crema instead of the garlic sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Marinate the chicken with oil and spices to lock in moisture, and avoid overcooking when grilling.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly richer flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ Is the sauce spicy?

No, the sauce is creamy and mellow. You can add more cayenne to the chicken if you prefer extra heat.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.