🍗 Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi–Strawberry Salsa
Mediterranean-Inspired Fresh & Flavorful Dish
🌿 Description
These garlic cilantro chicken bites are juicy, golden, and bursting with flavor, paired with a bright kiwi–strawberry salsa that adds a refreshing Mediterranean-style twist. Cooked in olive oil with garlic, lemon, and herbs, this dish balances savory and sweet beautifully. It’s perfect as a light main, appetizer, or protein bowl topping—fresh, colorful, and nutritious.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites
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500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
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2½ tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of ½ lemon
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
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Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Kiwi–Strawberry Salsa
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2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced
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1 cup strawberries, hulled and diced
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1 tbsp red onion, very finely chopped
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Juice of ½ lime or lemon
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1 tbsp fresh mint or basil, chopped
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Pinch of sea salt
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Optional: drizzle of honey if fruit is tart
👩🍳 Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Toss chicken to coat and marinate 15–30 minutes. -
Prepare the Salsa
Combine kiwi, strawberries, red onion, citrus juice, herbs, and salt.
Chill while cooking the chicken. -
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring, until golden and cooked through. -
Finish
Remove from heat and toss with fresh cilantro. -
Serve
Plate chicken bites and spoon kiwi–strawberry salsa over or alongside.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Serve with quinoa, farro, or brown rice
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Add to Mediterranean grain bowls
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Enjoy in lettuce cups or with warm pita
❓ Q & A
Q: Is this recipe Mediterranean diet–friendly?
A: Yes. It uses lean protein, olive oil, fresh fruit, herbs, and citrus—key Mediterranean elements.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead?
A: Absolutely. Thread onto skewers and grill 8–10 minutes, turning once.
Q: Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best within 12 hours for maximum freshness.
Q: What can I use instead of cilantro?
A: Flat-leaf parsley or basil works well.
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A: Yes! You can omit onion and cumin for a milder flavor.
🌱 Health Benefits
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💪 High in lean protein
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🥝 Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
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🫒 Heart-healthy fats
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⚖️ Light, refreshing, and balanced
