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There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen—especially when it’s wrapped around soft, golden bread and paired with juicy chicken.

garlic knots and chicken skillet — Skillet of golden garlic knots and juicy chicken

For me, garlic knots and chicken aren’t just a dish; they’re a memory. Growing up, I always gravitated toward garlic knots whenever we ordered pizza, often reaching for those pillowy bites before even touching a slice. The buttery shine, the savory garlic, the sprinkle of Parmesan—pure comfort.

Later, when I started experimenting in my own kitchen, I realized how well those flavors pair with tender chicken. One evening, I was roasting chicken thighs and found leftover dough in the fridge. A light bulb went off: garlic knots and chicken, in the same pan. It turned out to be a flavor bomb, and from that night on, it became a go-to combo—ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, and yes, game day snacks too.

This dish fits right into the comforting, flavor-forward meals I love to share at DinnerScoop.com. Whether you’re into cozy casseroles or crave-worthy appetizers, there’s something special about combining textures—the chew of a garlic knot with the crisp sear of chicken. It’s like bringing together the best of bread and protein in one bite.

If you love bold, playful meals, don’t miss my Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese—another chicken-forward favorite that packs a punch. And if you’re after something skewered and snackable, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers also deliver those garlicky notes we can’t get enough of.

So today, I’m sharing my easy, crowd-pleasing version of garlic knots and chicken—complete with how to serve it, sauce ideas, and prep tips to keep it stress-free. Let’s jump in and turn your kitchen into a garlic-scented haven.

How to Make Garlic Knots and Chicken

When you’re short on time but still want something homemade and hearty, garlic knots and chicken are a go-to solution. This recipe is easy to prep and satisfying from the first bite. With just a few ingredients—most of which you likely have on hand—you’ll get juicy chicken nestled among golden, garlicky knots, all baked together for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

garlic knots and chicken ingredients — All the ingredients for garlic knots and chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into chunks or strips)
1 refrigerated pizza dough or canned biscuit dough
4 tablespoons melted butter
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes or mozzarella for extra flavor

You can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for brightness just before serving. That hint of citrus balances out the richness, especially if you use chicken thighs.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

forming garlic knots — Shaping garlic knots before baking

Prep the Chicken: Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, and half the Parmesan. Set aside for brushing the dough.
Form the Knots: Cut the dough into strips, then twist each into a knot. Don’t stress perfection—they’ll puff up beautifully as they bake.
Assemble in One Pan: In a greased baking dish, nestle the garlic knots around the cooked chicken. Brush everything with garlic butter and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.
Bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes or until the knots are golden and the chicken is heated through. Finish with more parsley or cheese if desired.

You’ll love how the buttery garlic soaks into the edges of the dough while the chicken juices mingle with everything in the pan. It’s like a shortcut to flavor heaven.

If you’re a fan of comfort-style dinners, you might also enjoy my Chicken Cobbler Casserole—a warm, creamy bake that’s just as easy to throw together. Or try these crispy Baked Chicken Bites for another family favorite that’s big on flavor and low on fuss.

Best Pairings and Dipping Sauces

Once your garlic knots and chicken are fresh out of the oven, you’re halfway to meal perfection. Now it’s all about what you serve with them and how you dip them. Whether you want to keep it casual or dress things up a bit, these pairing ideas and sauces take things to the next level.

Dipping Sauces That Bring It All Together

A good sauce can turn an already tasty bite into something completely crave-worthy. Here are a few of our favorites:

Marinara: A classic pairing that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully. Serve it warm and thick.
Ranch or Garlic Aioli: Creamy, cool, and perfect with chicken. The contrast makes each bite more satisfying.
Buffalo Sauce: If you’re craving a spicy kick, serve buffalo on the side—or toss the chicken in it before baking for even more flavor.
Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy meets savory and garlicky—yes, please.
Pesto: For a more herby twist, pesto works well as a dip or drizzle, especially if you’re using mozzarella or lemon zest in the recipe.

Looking for a dip that’s already packed with protein? This Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese offers a bold flavor and is ideal for game day grazing.

Side Dishes That Make It a Full Meal

Pairing the right sides with garlic knots and chicken helps round things out. You want something fresh, crisp, or creamy to balance the richness.

Simple Green Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness.
Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus roast beautifully alongside the knots.
Crispy Potatoes or Wedges: A satisfying side if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.
Creamy Coleslaw: Especially good with spicy sauces for contrast.

Want to keep things finger-food friendly? Serve it with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or veggie sticks and let everyone dip to their heart’s content. These combos keep the vibe fun while still being filling.

Serving Ideas, Prep Tips, and Storage

serving garlic knots and chicken — Garlic knots and chicken served with dipping sauces

The beauty of garlic knots and chicken lies in its flexibility—it’s just as perfect for a cozy dinner as it is for a lively party spread. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or prepping ahead for a busy week, this dish can fit the plan.

One-Pan Serving and Reheating Tips

If you’re a fan of low-effort cooking (who isn’t?), you’ll love how easily this meal turns into a one-pan winner. Arrange your garlic knots and cooked chicken in a single baking dish, drizzle with garlic butter, and slide it into the oven. This method keeps the cleanup minimal and the flavors rich.

After baking, serve it straight from the dish with extra Parmesan or a side of warm marinara. For a rustic look, use a cast iron skillet that transitions from oven to table beautifully.

Need to reheat leftovers? Just cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until warm. For smaller portions, an air fryer works wonders to re-crisp the knots.

Meal Prep and Game Day Tips

Planning ahead? You can prep the garlic knots and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store the shaped dough and cooked chicken separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready. It’s a serious time-saver on busy nights.

For parties or game day, go mini! Use biscuit dough to form small knots and cube the chicken. This way, guests can grab a bite-sized combo perfect for dipping. A few ramekins filled with different sauces—like ranch, buffalo, and honey mustard—will be gone in no time.

If you’re into bold flavor and crispy bites, these Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken pieces make an exciting addition to your platter. Or offer a lighter touch with a quick Dill Pickle Chicken Salad for a cool, tangy side.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning weekday lunches, garlic knots and chicken check every box: easy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.

FAQs About Garlic Knots and Chicken

What is the best way to serve garlic knots with chicken?
The best way to serve garlic knots with chicken is right out of the oven, while the garlic butter is still warm and fragrant. Arrange the golden knots around tender chicken pieces in a skillet or baking dish, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan. Pair with marinara, creamy ranch, or buffalo sauce on the side for dipping. This setup works great for both family dinners and casual gatherings.

Can I bake garlic knots and chicken together in one pan?
Yes, you can bake them in the same pan—and it’s a game changer. Cook the chicken first (either pan-seared or partially baked), then nestle it among the dough knots before brushing everything with garlic butter. This allows the chicken juices to infuse the bread with flavor as it bakes, and the knots get a beautiful golden edge. It’s a one-pan win, especially for easy cleanup.

What dipping sauces go well with garlic knots and chicken?
Several sauces pair perfectly with garlic knots and chicken. Marinara offers a classic Italian twist, while ranch or garlic aioli adds creamy contrast. For a kick, try buffalo sauce or a sweet chili blend. Pesto is another delicious option, especially if you sprinkle mozzarella over the knots before baking. Mix and match a few for variety on a party tray.

Is this dish good for meal prep or game day snacks?
Absolutely. Garlic knots and chicken are easy to prep ahead, store, and reheat. Shape your knots and pre-cook your chicken, then store both in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. For game day, make mini versions using biscuit dough and cubed chicken—perfect for dipping and sharing. They hold up well and reheat quickly, making them ideal for snack tables and lunchboxes alike.

Conclusion

Garlic knots and chicken bring together everything we love about comfort food: bold flavor, texture, and simplicity. Whether baked in one pan or served up with a tray of sauces, it’s a dish that satisfies every time. From weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, this combo delivers. Don’t forget to check out other crowd-pleasers like Birria Chicken Tacos or this rich Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Crockpot for even more cozy-meal inspiration.

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