20-Minute Butter Chicken Bites: A Flavor-Packed, High-Protein Delight

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Craving the rich, comforting taste of butter chicken but need something quick and easy? These Butter Chicken Bites bring all the warm, spiced flavors in a bite-sized, high-protein dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect as an appetizer, a main course over rice, or tucked into a wrap, this recipe is both savory and satisfying.

Ultra-close-up, high-quality image of a single Butter Chicken Bite, capturing its golden-brown, slightly charred exterior, glistening with rich butter sauce. The bite should be skewered or placed on a small dish, with a blurred background emphasizing warm, inviting tones. Highlights should showcase the glossy texture of the sauce, while a light sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color. The image must exclude any extra elements to maintain a clean, immersive close-up

Ingredients and Preparation Steps

These Butter Chicken Bites require simple pantry ingredients and a few easy steps to bring out their bold flavors.

Ingredients

A photo of a culinary preparation scene on a marble countertop. The image features a variety of ingredients and cooking tools spread out, including raw poultry pieces, spices such as salt, chili powder, and butter, sauces like a rich red sauce, and a small amount of liquid. The ingredients are arranged in various bowls and dishes, with the poultry prominently displayed in a larger plate in the center. The bowls vary in size and shape. The marble countertop provides a smooth, neutral backdrop.

For the Chicken:

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or avocado)
  • 1 tsp onion powder, divided
  • 1 tsp salt, divided

For the Butter Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp no-salt-added tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1¼ tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ⅓ cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, preheat your oven to broil and line a baking sheet with foil. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with oil, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp salt. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Ultra-close-up view of raw, marinated chicken pieces on a lined baking sheet. The oil lightly coats the pieces, giving them a subtle sheen, while specks of seasoning are visible on the surface. The background remains softly blurred, emphasizing the texture and preparation process.

Step 2: Broil the Chicken

Next, place the chicken under the broiler for 7 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly. Remove from the oven and drain any excess liquid.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Sauce

After that, in a small saucepan, mix tomato paste and water over medium heat until smooth. Stir in garam masala, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), and the remaining onion powder and salt. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.

Ultra-close-up view of a saucepan with a deep red, simmering tomato-based sauce. A wooden spoon stirs the mixture, revealing its thick consistency. The background remains blurred to keep the focus on the rich sauce.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Then, stir in tomato sauce and reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in cubed butter, one piece at a time, allowing it to melt fully. Remove from heat when smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Next, brush ¼ cup of the butter sauce over the chicken. Return it to the oven and broil for another 3-6 minutes until sizzling and cooked through (165°F internal temp).

Ultra-close-up view of glistening, sauce-coated chicken bites sizzling under the broiler. The surface is slightly crisp, while the sauce caramelizes around the edges. The background remains softly blurred, highlighting the textures.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Finally, brush the chicken with more butter sauce, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately with extra sauce for dipping!

Ultra-close-up view of a serving plate filled with butter chicken bites, garnished with finely chopped cilantro. The sauce glistens under warm lighting, with a side dish of extra sauce nearby for dipping. The background remains softly blurred, drawing focus to the rich textures of the dish.

Why You’ll Love These Butter Chicken Bites

Every bite of these Butter Chicken Bites is bursting with rich, buttery flavors balanced with warm Indian spices. The chicken remains juicy and tender, while the sauce delivers an irresistible creaminess with a slight tang from the tomatoes. Serve them as an appetizer, over steamed rice, or even stuffed into warm wraps for a delicious meal!

For another take on this dish, check out this classic Butter Chicken Bites recipe for more variations.

Butter Chicken Bites FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast works well, but thighs tend to stay juicier. If using breast meat, be careful not to overcook them.

What can I serve these with?

They pair perfectly with rice, naan, or even as a protein-packed snack on their own!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken in advance and reheat with a little extra sauce before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Bites

  1. Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier than chicken breast and offer more flavor.
  2. Broil in batches: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
  3. Adjust the spice level: Prefer it milder? Skip the cayenne. Want more heat? Add an extra pinch.
  4. Rest before serving: Let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes to absorb the sauce better.
  5. Try a smoky twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or grill the chicken instead of broiling.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken bites (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying.
  • Oven Method: Reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes for the best texture.

Perfect Pairings for Butter Chicken Bites

  • Fluffy Basmati Rice: The ideal base for soaking up the rich butter sauce.
  • Warm Garlic Naan: Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
  • Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip balances the spice.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Adds a fresh, smoky contrast.
  • Mango Lassi: A refreshing, slightly sweet drink to complement the savory flavors.

Give These Butter Chicken Bites a Try!

Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a flavorful protein-packed snack, or a delicious meal, these Butter Chicken Bites deliver bold flavors in every bite. The creamy, spiced butter sauce pairs perfectly with tender, broiled chicken, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Want to take it up a notch? Try serving them with fluffy basmati rice or alongside creamy garlic naan for a complete meal!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Let us know in the comments how you liked it, and tag us on social media with your creations!

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Butter Chicken Bites

  • Author: Amara
  • Total Time: 20 mins
Print Recipe

Description

Craving butter chicken but need something quick and bite-sized? These juicy, spiced chicken bites are coated in a rich tomato-based butter sauce, delivering all the comforting flavors in just 20 minutes! Serve them as an appetizer with extra sauce for dipping, or enjoy them over rice or in a wrap.

Ingredients

– 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or avocado)
– 1 tsp onion powder, divided
– 1 tsp salt, divided
– 2 tbsp no-salt-added tomato paste
– 1 tbsp water
– 1¼ tsp garam masala
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– ¼ tsp paprika
– ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– ⅓ cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. First, preheat the oven to broil and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Next, toss the chicken with oil, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp salt. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet and broil for 7 minutes until browned. Remove excess liquid.
3. After that, in a small saucepan, mix tomato paste and water over medium heat until smooth. Stir in garam masala, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), and the remaining onion powder and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Then, stir in tomato sauce and reduce heat to low. Whisk in cubed butter, one piece at a time, until melted. Remove from heat.
5. Next, brush ¼ cup of butter sauce over the chicken and broil for another 3-6 minutes until sizzling and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
6. Finally, brush again with more butter sauce, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve with extra sauce on the side!

Notes

For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or grill the chicken instead of broiling!

  • Category: Quick & Easy

Nutrition

  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 18g

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