Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa

📋 Description

These Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites are savory, tender, and full of zesty flavor—perfect for a quick appetizer or light main dish. Paired with a vibrant Kiwi Strawberry Salsa, they offer a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates every bite. This dish is a fresh fusion of bold herbs, juicy fruit, and protein-packed chicken.

🍗 Ingredients for Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa

For the Chicken Bites:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa:

• 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced

• 4–5 strawberries, hulled and diced

• 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tsp lime juice

• Pinch of salt

• Optional: ½ small jalapeño, finely chopped (for heat)

🔪 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss well to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).

2. Prepare the Salsa
   In a separate bowl, combine kiwi, strawberries, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Add jalapeño if using. Mix gently and chill until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Chicken
   Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken bites for 4–5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F or 75°C).

4. Serve
   Plate the chicken bites and top with or serve alongside the kiwi strawberry salsa. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.

5. 📝 Notes

• Chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful than breasts, but both work well.

• The salsa can be made 1–2 hours ahead to let flavors meld.

• Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain juiciness.

💡 Tips

• For added richness, drizzle a little honey-lime yogurt sauce on top.

• Serve with lettuce cups or over jasmine rice for a fuller meal.

• Add diced avocado to the salsa for extra creaminess.

• Use a cast iron skillet for a crispy sear on the chicken bites.

🍽️ Servings

• Serves: 4 as an appetizer or light meal

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

🧪 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 240

• Protein: 26g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 220mg

🌟 Benefits

• High Protein: Lean chicken supports muscle repair and energy.

• Antioxidant-Rich Salsa: Strawberries and kiwi provide vitamin C and polyphenols.

• Low Carb: Great for light meals or keto-style eating.

• Balanced Flavors: Combines sweet, savory, spicy, and fresh elements.

• Anti-Inflammatory: Garlic and cilantro may help reduce inflammation.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen fruit for the salsa?
A: Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen fruit can work in a pinch.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What can I substitute for kiwi?
A: Mango or pineapple makes a great alternative if kiwi isn’t available.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Only mildly spicy if you add jalapeño. Otherwise, it’s sweet and savory.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead?
A: Yes, marinate the chicken and prep the salsa ahead, but cook chicken fresh for best flavor.