These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are crispy, juicy, and coated in a rich, buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, appetizer, or snack, this keto-friendly recipe delivers bold flavor without the carbs. Serve them with a side of veggies, over a salad, or enjoy them as a delicious protein-packed snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto-friendly & low-carb – No breadcrumbs, just flavorful, crispy chicken.
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Crispy & juicy – Perfectly seared chicken tossed in a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce.
- Versatile – Great as a main dish, appetizer, or salad topping.
- One-pan meal – Less cleanup, more flavor!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt & pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Minced garlic
- Butter (melted)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken bites and toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot with your favorite keto-friendly side dishes!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Oven-baked option – Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air fryer method – Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Extra crispy – Toss the chicken in grated Parmesan before cooking for a crispy coating.
- Dairy-free option – Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast instead.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet or air fryer for 3-5 minutes to keep them crispy.
FAQs
Are these chicken bites keto-friendly?
Yes! They contain no breadcrumbs or flour, making them perfect for a low-carb diet.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
What’s the best way to get crispy chicken bites?
Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What sides go well with garlic Parmesan chicken bites?
Try roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower mash, or a simple green salad.
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
For a keto-friendly crunch, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook it—remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or air fryer before serving.
What dipping sauces go well with this?
Ranch, sugar-free marinara, or a keto-friendly garlic aioli are great options.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Grated fresh Parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are a quick, delicious, and keto-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re sure to be a hit. With crispy chicken coated in a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Bites (Keto & Low-Carb)
Juicy chicken bites seasoned with garlic and coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, offering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
-
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
-
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Add Garlic and Butter: Reduce the heat to medium. Push the chicken to the edges of the skillet and add the butter and minced garlic to the center. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir it into the chicken.
-
Incorporate Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Toss to evenly coat the chicken in the cheese.
-
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken bites and serve immediately.
Notes
-
Serving Suggestions: These chicken bites pair well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal.
-
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.