Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for grilling)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until fully coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the grill.
- Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce by combining the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then refrigerate the sauce until serving.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal skewers, ensuring there is a small space between pieces for even cooking. Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Step 4: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken bites are golden brown, fully cooked through, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Step 5: Remove the grilled chicken bites from the skewers and place them on a serving platter. Serve immediately alongside the chilled Creamy Garlic Sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Store leftover grilled chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the Creamy Garlic Sauce (which should be used within 2 days) in a separate, sealed container in the fridge.
- To revive the chicken without drying it out, reheat the bites in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, aiming for a quick crisp rather than microwaving them.
- For a delicious meal, serve these savory bites over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or pair them with simple grilled asparagus to balance the richness of the creamy garlic sauce.
- Chef's Tip: For the deepest flavor during marination, resist the urge to skip threading and grilling on skewers, as the small gap between cubes ensures all surfaces achieve that beautiful grilled char.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American