Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory chicken, crispy potatoes, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that binds everything together in a perfect harmony of flavor. This easy one-pan meal is packed with bold flavors, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a casual get-together. The tender chicken, combined with golden roasted potatoes, is coated in a buttery garlic Parmesan sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that will leave you coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. The best part? It requires minimal cleanup, making it the ideal meal for those looking for a low-effort, high-reward dinner. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, offer tips for making it perfect every time, and suggest fun variations to try. Get ready to indulge in a meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and heartwarming goodness.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Bold and Savory Flavors: The garlic Parmesan sauce takes center stage, providing a rich, garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and crispy potatoes. The Parmesan adds a sharp, umami richness that elevates the entire dish.
• One-Pan Meal: This dish is perfect for busy nights. Everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes to clean and more time to enjoy your meal. The chicken and potatoes roast together, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of chicken and potatoes is always a winner. The crispy edges of the potatoes, along with the juicy chicken, create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Customizable: This recipe is highly versatile. You can adjust the seasoning, add vegetables like broccoli or carrots, or even use different cuts of chicken based on your preferences. The dish also works well for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and hearty enough to fill you up. No need for fancy ingredients—just simple, wholesome food that tastes amazing.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if preferred)
• 1 pound baby potatoes (or regular potatoes, cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by preparing the potatoes. If using baby potatoes, halve them or leave them whole if they’re small. If using larger potatoes, cut them into cubes. The key is to ensure the potato pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

Place the potatoes in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them well to coat evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Set the potatoes aside while you prepare the chicken.

2. Season the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. If you’re using chicken breasts, you can use the same method. For extra flavor, feel free to rub the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite seasoning mix.

This seasoning will create a flavorful crust as the chicken roasts, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

3. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. This sauce is what will give the chicken and potatoes their delicious, savory coating.

4. Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they begin to soften and turn golden brown on the edges. You can stir the potatoes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

While the potatoes are roasting, the garlic Parmesan sauce can be set aside, ready to coat the chicken and potatoes later.

5. Sear the Chicken

While the potatoes are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs (skin side down) to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step is optional, but it helps to lock in the juices and adds extra flavor to the chicken.

Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

6. Combine the Chicken and Potatoes

Once the potatoes are partially roasted, take the skillet out of the oven and add the seared chicken thighs on top of the potatoes. Spoon some of the garlic Parmesan sauce over each piece of chicken, making sure to coat it generously. If there is extra sauce, you can drizzle it over the potatoes as well.

Return the skillet to the oven and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are crispy and tender. The sauce will bubble and create a golden crust on both the chicken and the potatoes.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken and potatoes are fully cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. This adds a fresh, zesty note that balances the richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes immediately, and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and savory sauce.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts) yield the best results. The skin crisps up beautifully in the oven, and the meat stays juicy and tender.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: For the best results, make sure the chicken and potatoes aren’t crowded in the pan. If necessary, use two skillets or a larger baking dish. This ensures even cooking and allows the potatoes to get crispy.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your personal preferences. If you like your food spicier, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add extra garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives the sauce a smoother, creamier texture than pre-grated Parmesan. For the best results, buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself.
• Check the Chicken Temperature: The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Make It a Complete Meal: You can easily add vegetables to this dish to make it even more filling. Consider adding green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots alongside the potatoes. Simply toss them in the garlic Parmesan sauce and cook them alongside the chicken.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Roasted Vegetables: Add additional vegetables like Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or carrots to the pan. These vegetables will roast alongside the potatoes and chicken, absorbing the savory garlic Parmesan flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: If you prefer a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream to the garlic Parmesan sauce before drizzling it over the chicken. The cream will give the sauce a velvety texture, making the dish extra indulgent.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: For a bright and zesty twist, add more lemon juice to the sauce or garnish with lemon slices before serving. The acidity of the lemon will balance the richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce.
• Bacon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the garlic Parmesan sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The smokiness of the bacon complements the garlic and Parmesan perfectly.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can be stored for later, making it a great meal prep option.

• Storing: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• **

Reheating**: To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 2-3 minutes, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the potatoes.

• Freezing: While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. After the dish has cooled, place the chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Pair this hearty, savory dish with sides that complement its rich flavors:

• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus is a great side to balance the richness of the chicken and potatoes. The slight bitterness of the asparagus pairs well with the savory flavors of the main dish.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb option, serve the chicken and potatoes with cauliflower rice. The subtle flavors of the cauliflower rice won’t compete with the bold garlic Parmesan sauce, and it adds a healthy element to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers complement the savory flavors of the garlic Parmesan sauce and add more texture to the meal.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and the rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce makes this dish irresistible. It’s the perfect choice for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something special to serve to guests. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and lots of room for customization, this one-pan meal is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Enjoy!