Simple Greek Chicken Bites

This Mediterranean-inspired chicken dish transforms simple ingredients into juicy, flavorful bites bursting with Greek character. The tangy marinade infuses the chicken with bright flavors while a quick sear locks in moisture for an irresistible meal that's versatile enough for any occasion.

I first made these chicken bites for a backyard gathering when I needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The platter was completely empty within minutes, and guests were asking for the recipe before they even left.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1.5 inch cubes. Choose organic if possible for best flavor and texture
• Red wine vinegar: Creates the tangy base for our marinade that tenderizes the meat
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with natural acidity
• Dried oregano: Provides the signature Greek flavor profile essential to authentic taste
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a beautiful sear on the chicken
• Dijon mustard: Works as an emulsifier for the marinade while adding subtle complexity
• Fresh garlic: Brings aromatic depth to the finished dish
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful deglazing liquid that becomes a light sauce
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh herbal finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the marinade:

Combine red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, sugar, dried oregano, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until combined. While continuing to whisk, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a thin stream. This gradual addition creates an emulsion where the oil and acidic ingredients properly combine rather than separate.

Marinate the chicken:

Add your cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. While you can marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor, avoid going longer as the acid can start breaking down the protein too much and affect texture.

Sear the chicken:

Remove chicken from marinade and gently pat dry with paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer with space between each piece. Let them cook undisturbed for a full 2 minutes to develop a golden crust before flipping. Cook just one minute on the second side before removing to a plate.

Create the sauce:

Add minced garlic to the same pan and cook just until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Immediately pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release all the flavorful browned bits. Allow the broth to simmer vigorously until reduced by half in volume.

Finish cooking:

Return the partially cooked chicken to the pan with the reduced broth. Cook while occasionally stirring until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the chicken is just cooked through with no pink remaining. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy. Finally, add fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, tossing everything together before serving.

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The dried oregano in this recipe is truly the secret ingredient that transports you straight to Greece. My grandmother always said the mark of authentic Greek cooking was generous oregano and good olive oil. When I make these chicken bites, the aroma instantly reminds me of her kitchen during summer family gatherings.

Make-Ahead Options

These Greek chicken bites work beautifully as a meal prep option. You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. For maximum efficiency, cube your chicken the night before and store it separately, then combine with the marinade 20 minutes before cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Transform these versatile chicken bites into multiple meals throughout the week. Serve them traditionally with a side of lemon rice and a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean dinner. Tuck them into warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and sliced vegetables for a quick lunch. For a low-carb option, create a protein bowl with cauliflower rice, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.

Perfect Pairings

The bright, herbal flavors in this chicken pair wonderfully with certain accompaniments. Try serving alongside a classic Greek tzatziki sauce for dipping, or drizzle with creamy tahini sauce for richness. For beverages, a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko from Santorini or a light lager beer complements without overpowering. Even a simple glass of ice water with lemon wedges works beautifully with these flavorful bites.

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Greek souvlaki, which has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for thousands of years. Historically, Greek cooks used marinades not just for flavor but as a preservation method. The acid from vinegar and lemon juice helped extend the life of protein in warm climates before refrigeration. Today, we enjoy these same techniques purely for their wonderful flavor enhancement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I properly marinate the chicken?

Combine marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until emulsified. Add chicken pieces, coat evenly, and refrigerate for 20 minutes to 2 hours.

→ What is the best way to sear the chicken?

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer for about 2 minutes on each side, ensuring it's nicely browned.

→ Can I store and reheat the chicken bites?

Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with broth or in the microwave.

→ What are some serving suggestions for these chicken bites?

Serve them over rice, in pita bread with tzatziki sauce, or as a flavorful appetizer with dipping sauces.

→ Can I adjust the seasoning to preference?

Absolutely. Adjust salt, pepper, and marinade ingredients like oregano and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.