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## 3. Step-by-Step Recipe for Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making **Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa**.
### **For the Chicken Bites:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken**:
– In a medium-sized bowl, combine 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
– Add the chicken breasts or thighs, cutting them into bite-sized pieces (about 1-2 inches). Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate. If you have more time, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
2. **Cook the Chicken**:
– Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
– Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. **Set Aside**:
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Set it aside while you prepare the salsa.
### **For the Kiwi Strawberry Salsa:**
1. **Prepare the Fruit**:
– Peel and dice 2 ripe kiwis into small cubes. Hull and chop 1 cup of fresh strawberries into similar-sized pieces. Place both fruits in a medium-sized bowl.
2. **Add the Vegetables**:
– Finely chop 1/4 red onion and 1 small jalapeño (if using). Add them to the bowl with the fruit.
3. **Season the Salsa**:
– Add 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and a drizzle of honey to the bowl. Mix well, making sure all ingredients are evenly combined.
4. **Taste and Adjust**:
– Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lime juice for acidity, honey for sweetness, or cilantro for a fresher flavor.
### **Assemble and Serve**:
– Arrange the garlic cilantro chicken bites on a serving platter and spoon the kiwi strawberry salsa over the top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. The salsa can also be served on the side for dipping.
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## 4. Nutritional Benefits of the Dish
This dish is not only tasty but also provides a variety of health benefits:
### **Chicken**:
– **Lean Protein**: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair tissues and maintain muscle mass. It is also an excellent source of niacin, selenium, and phosphorus, which support metabolism, immune health, and bone health.
### **Kiwi**:
– **Rich in Vitamin C**: Kiwi is packed with vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, skin health, and collagen production. It also contains fiber and antioxidants that promote gut health and reduce oxidative stress.
### **Strawberries**:
– **High in Antioxidants**: Strawberries are rich in anthocyanins, flavonoids that have antioxidant properties and help protect the body from free radical damage. They also contain fiber, vitamin C, and manganese.
### **Red Onion**:
– **Anti-inflammatory Properties**: Red onions contain compounds like quercetin that help reduce inflammation. They also support heart health and provide a good amount of vitamin C.
### **Cilantro**:
– **Detoxifying**: Cilantro is known for its detoxifying properties, helping the body eliminate heavy metals and toxins. It is also a good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health.
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## 5. Tips for Preparing Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa
– **Use Fresh Ingredients**: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavors will be. Be sure to use ripe, sweet strawberries and kiwis to balance the acidity and sweetness of the salsa.
– **Don’t Overcook the Chicken**: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry and tough. Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
– **Adjust the Spice Level**: If you prefer a milder salsa, leave out the jalapeño or use only a small amount. If you like heat, feel free to add more chili powder to the chicken or increase the amount of jalapeño.
– **Make Ahead**: You can marinate the chicken a few hours ahead of time, or even the night before, to allow the flavors to develop. The salsa can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
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## 6. Ways to Customize the Recipe
While the combination of garlic cilantro chicken bites and kiwi strawberry salsa is already delicious, you can customize it to suit your preferences:
– **Add Avocado**: Dice some avocado into the salsa for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you enjoy heat, add extra chili flakes or a hotter pepper to the salsa or the marinade.
– **Use Different Protein**: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different take on the dish.
– **Add Nuts**: Top the dish with some crushed almonds, walnuts, or cashews for added crunch and flavor.
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## 7. Serving Suggestions
Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion:
– **As an Appetizer**: Serve these chicken bites as part of a tapas-style spread for a gathering or party.
– **With a Salad**: Pair the dish with a light green salad or a quinoa salad for a complete meal.
– **As a Main Course**: Serve the chicken and salsa over a bed of rice, couscous, or quinoa for a filling meal.
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## 8. Conclusion
**Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa** is an exciting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its beautiful balance of savory and sweet, along with its vibrant
colors, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal, entertaining guests, or simply indulging in something delicious and healthy, this recipe will not disappoint.
By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients. With its fresh ingredients, bright flavors, and impressive presentation, **Garlic Cilantro Chicken Bites with Kiwi Strawberry Salsa** is the perfect meal to savor and share with loved ones.
