Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Tender, juicy grilled chicken bites paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce make a quick, flavorful meal or appetizer that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- Grill
- Large Bowl
- Skewers
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder optional for some heat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers if grilling on skewers
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 0.5 cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped, optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures quick and even cooking. Place the pieces in a large bowl.
Marinate the Chicken
- Add olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper to the chicken. Mix well until each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; overnight is even better.
Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If using skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, ensuring they’re not too crowded.
Grill the Chicken Bites
- Place the chicken directly on the grill grates or on skewers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully to get nice grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- While the chicken is grilling, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and parsley in a small bowl. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the garlic or lemon juice if you want a stronger flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your grilled chicken bites warm with a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce on top or on the side for dipping. These bites pair beautifully with fresh salads, grilled veggies, or even warm pita bread.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier bites or breasts for leaner meat. Marinate at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Grill pan or broiler can substitute a grill. Soak wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning. Adjust garlic levels in the sauce to your taste. Let chicken rest after grilling for maximum tenderness. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for heat, fresh herbs for flavor, or substituting with other proteins or dairy-free options.