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Bocconcini di Pollo al Limone (Italian Lemon Chicken Bites)

Bocconcini di Pollo al Limone

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Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Lemon juicer (optional)
  • Tongs or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 500 g boneless skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons about 1/3 cup
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Method:
  • Step 1: Prep the Chicken
  • Rinse and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. From my own personal experience, or based on my overall experience, this step ensures the chicken browns nicely without excess moisture.
  • Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes, for even cooking.
  • Step 2: Marinate the Chicken (Optional)
  • If you have a bit of extra time, marinate the chicken pieces in a bit of lemon juice and olive oil for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional but can enhance the lemon flavor in each bite.
  • Step 3: Heat the Skillet
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
  • Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, from my experience, avoid burning the garlic as it can add bitterness.
  • Step 4: Cook the Chicken
  • Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper.
  • Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked inside.
  • Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Sauce
  • In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
  • Pour this lemony mixture into the skillet with the chicken.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly. The sauce will thicken a bit as it reduces, coating each piece of chicken in a light, tangy glaze.
  • Step 6: Rest and Serve
  • Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish stand for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
  • Serve immediately with your choice of side dish, like rice, salad, or pasta.
  • Variations and Tips:
  • Add a Creamy Twist: For a creamy version, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream after adding the lemon juice and chicken broth.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Dietary Substitutions:
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
  • Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt.
    Bocconcini di Pollo al Limone (Italian Lemon Chicken Bites)
Keyword Bocconcini di Pollo al Limone, Meat