One-Pan Diced Chicken Recipes – Easy & Hassle-Free Cooking!

Name: One-Pan Diced Chicken Recipes – Easy & Hassle-Free Cooking!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 30, 2025

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Cooking should be simple, delicious, and hassle-free, and that’s exactly what this One-Pan Garlic Butter Diced Chicken delivers. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even casual dinners, this dish combines tender, juicy chicken bites with a rich, garlicky butter sauce that coats every piece in flavor.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The combination of buttery garlic, aromatic herbs, and a hint of spice makes it an irresistible go-to meal that pairs well with everything from rice and pasta to wraps, salads, and roasted vegetables.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s high in protein, easy to make, and incredibly flavorful, this garlic butter chicken will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes this dish special, the best ways to serve it, expert cooking tips, common variations, and frequently asked questions.

Why One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken is a Must-Try

1. Quick and Ready in 20 Minutes

This dish is faster than takeout but delivers restaurant-quality flavor. The diced chicken cooks quickly, and the garlic butter sauce comes together in minutes, making it an ideal meal for those nights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. A One-Pan Wonder

Cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to wash. The flavors also develop beautifully in a single skillet, as the browned bits from the chicken get incorporated into the sauce, creating depth and richness in every bite.

3. Bursting with Flavor

Garlic and butter are a classic combination, and when paired with Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and a splash of lemon juice, the result is bold, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. The garlic butter sauce coats every piece of chicken, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

4. Versatile and Customizable

This dish is adaptable to any diet or preference. Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, or toss it into a salad or wrap, there are endless ways to enjoy it. You can also adjust the seasonings, add extra heat, or make it creamy to suit your taste.

5. High-Protein and Healthy

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making this dish a nutritious option for those looking to fuel their bodies. By using olive oil and butter in moderation, you get the perfect balance of healthy fats and richness.

Ingredients

For the Diced Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced) – 2 large (lean, protein-rich base)
Salt – 1 teaspoon (enhances flavor)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (adds mild spice)
Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon (deepens the garlic flavor)
Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon (adds a subtle smoky warmth)
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for searing and moisture)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons (adds rich, creamy depth)
Garlic (minced) – 4 cloves (bold, aromatic kick)
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon (herbal complexity)
Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon (balances richness with brightness)
Red pepper flakes (optional) – ¼ teaspoon (adds a slight kick)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – 2 tablespoons (adds fresh contrast)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the diced chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic, sautéing for 1 minute.
Stir in Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories – 320 kcal
Protein – 36g
Carbohydrates – 10g
Fat – 14g
Fiber – 3g

Best Ways to Serve One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

The versatility of this dish allows you to pair it with a variety of sides, making it a great option for different meals. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

1. Over Rice or Quinoa

The garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa, allowing the grains to soak up all the delicious flavors. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb option.

2. Tossed with Pasta

For a garlic butter chicken pasta, mix the cooked chicken with spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, and toss in extra butter or olive oil. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil takes it to the next level.

3. In Wraps or Tacos

Stuff the garlic butter chicken into a warm tortilla, add fresh veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch or chipotle sauce, and you’ve got an easy, flavorful taco or wrap.

4. On a Salad

For a lighter meal, add this chicken to a Caesar, Greek, or mixed greens salad. The garlic butter sauce acts as a built-in dressing, making the salad extra flavorful.

5. With Roasted Vegetables

Pairing this chicken with roasted zucchini, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers creates a nutrient-dense and satisfying meal with a variety of textures.

6. In a Sandwich or Panini

Turn this chicken into a hearty sandwich by layering it on toasted bread with cheese, arugula, and a spicy aioli. Press it in a panini maker for a crispy, melty treat.

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken

1. Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor

Freshly minced garlic delivers a more intense, aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced jarred garlic, which can sometimes taste dull.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cooking too much chicken at once prevents proper browning. Make sure the pieces are in a single layer with enough space to develop a golden crust.

3. Pat the Chicken Dry Before Cooking

Excess moisture on the chicken will prevent proper browning. Use a paper towel to pat the diced chicken dry before seasoning.

4. Adjust Butter to Taste

If you want a richer, glossier sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking. If you prefer a lighter version, use more olive oil and less butter.

5. Add a Splash of Lemon Juice for Brightness

A small squeeze of lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

6. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Allowing the chicken to rest for a minute or two after cooking helps retain its juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.

Popular Variations of One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

This recipe serves as a great base for different flavors. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

1. Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken

Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.
Drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha for even more heat.

2. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese at the end for a thicker, creamier sauce.

3. Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken

Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and extra lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.

4. Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Mix in 1 tablespoon of honey with the garlic butter sauce for a sweet and savory balance.

5. Keto and Low-Carb Version

Serve with steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles to keep it low in carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.

2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

3. Can I Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Dish?

Stovetop: Heat over medium heat with a splash of broth or butter.
Microwave: Use short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

5. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Yes! Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken

This One-Pan Garlic Butter Diced Chicken is more than just a quick meal—it’s a staple recipe that fits any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or something flavorful and satisfying, this recipe delivers.

With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and bold flavors, this dish proves that easy meals don’t have to be boring. Give it a try and experience how effortless and delicious home cooking can be!