Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
Looking for a vibrant, refreshing twist on your usual chicken dinner? These Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa will take your taste buds on a tropical vacation—without ever leaving your kitchen. Bursting with zesty lime, herbaceous cilantro, and juicy fruit, this dish is an explosion of color and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something light yet bold, this recipe fits the bill.
Let’s dive into why this easy, healthy, and downright delicious recipe is about to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Who This Recipe Is For
If you’re someone who:
Loves quick yet gourmet-style meals,
Appreciates fresh, seasonal ingredients,
Enjoys sweet-and-savory combinations,
Follows a gluten-free or dairy-free lifestyle,
Wants to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen,
…then this recipe is made for you.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, small bites at a party, or even a light lunch, these chicken bites are juicy and full of character, and the fruit salsa is both refreshing and surprisingly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, with a touch of heat for good measure. The lime and cilantro marinated chicken is pan-seared to perfection, offering a tender, citrusy protein that pairs wonderfully with the juicy, tangy Kiwi Strawberry Salsa. The vibrant fruit adds a delightful contrast, while the red onion and optional jalapeño give it that little extra bite.
Beyond the flavor, this recipe is:
Fast: Ready in 30 minutes (plus marinating time).
Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs, and full of vitamin-rich fruits.
Customizable: Make it your own with easy swaps and variations.
Ingredients List
For the Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites:
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa:
2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced
1 cup strawberries, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together garlic, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken bites, coating them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor absorption, use a resealable plastic bag and massage the marinade into the chicken.
2. Prepare the Salsa
While the chicken marinates, prepare the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced kiwis, strawberries, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine.
Tip: Make the salsa right before serving to preserve the freshness and prevent the fruit from becoming too soft.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if necessary. Sear the chicken bites for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Shortcut Option: Use an air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Assemble and Serve
Serve the warm chicken bites with a generous spoonful of the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa on top or on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Cutting board & sharp knife
Mixing bowls
Citrus juicer (optional)
Measuring spoons
Non-stick or cast iron skillet (or air fryer)
Spatula or tongs
Tips & Recipe Variations
Don’t Eat Chicken?
Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or grilled halloumi for equally delicious results.
Want More Heat?
Leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the salsa for a spicy kick.
Add Crunch:
Serve over tortilla chips for a nacho-style appetizer or top with toasted pepitas for a nutty crunch.
Meal Prep Tip:
Make the chicken ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Add fresh salsa just before serving.
Make It a Bowl:
Layer the chicken and salsa over quinoa, couscous, or mixed greens for a satisfying grain bowl.
How to Store Leftovers
Chicken: Store cooked chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave.
Salsa: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, and drain any excess juice.
Freezing Not Recommended: The fruit salsa will not retain its texture after thawing.
Perfect Pairings
Beverage Pairings:
White Wine: Try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Mocktail: A sparkling lime and mint spritzer complements the citrusy notes.
Beer: A light lager or fruity wheat beer enhances the tropical vibes.
Side Dishes:
Coconut rice
Grilled corn on the cob
Avocado slices or guacamole
Tortilla chips or warm flatbread
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 4–5 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
What if I can’t find fresh kiwis or strawberries?
Use canned or frozen fruit in a pinch, but drain thoroughly and chop once thawed. Keep in mind, fresh is best for texture and brightness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Skip the jalapeño and reduce red onion if your kids prefer milder flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. This recipe scales beautifully—just double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cook in batches.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa is one of those dishes that makes weeknight cooking feel special. It’s fast, flavorful, and full of color—what more could you ask for? With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little prep, you can serve a meal that looks gourmet and tastes even better.
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Bon appétit and happy cooking!