There are some dishes that feel like a warm hug, and Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes is one of them. Crispy golden potatoes, tender juicy chicken, and a rich garlic-parmesan coating that ties everything together – this recipe is simple, hearty, and downright irresistible. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday family meals, or even when you just want something comforting but impressive.
Ingredients
Here’s your shopping list (for 4 servings):
- Chicken thighs or breasts – 4 medium pieces (skin-on thighs work best for flavor)
- Baby potatoes – 1.5 pounds, halved
- Olive oil – 3 tbsp (Best-selling Olive Oil)
- Butter – 3 tbsp unsalted
- Garlic – 6 fresh cloves, minced (don’t skimp – fresh garlic makes a difference!)
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated (Freshly Grated Parmesan Option)
- Italian seasoning – 1 tsp (Italian Seasoning Blend)
- Paprika – 1 tsp
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp chopped (for garnish)
Optional but recommended:
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Before you start, gather these tools:
- Cast Iron Skillet – for that perfect sear.
- Baking Sheet with Rack – helps crisp up the chicken and potatoes.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – for chopping garlic and potatoes.
- Cutting Board.
- Mixing Bowls.
- Garlic Press (optional but makes life easier).
Preparation Steps (Barney Style 👶)
- Wash & chop potatoes – Cut baby potatoes in half. Keep skin on for extra crisp.
- Mince garlic – or use a garlic press.
- Prep chicken – Pat chicken dry with paper towels (helps crispiness). Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Preheat oven – Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix coating – In a bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan. Toss potatoes in half the mixture.
Cooking Instructions
- Sear the chicken – Heat your skillet with a little olive oil. Sear chicken skin-side down for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear other side for 2 minutes.
- Roast with potatoes – Transfer chicken and coated potatoes to a baking sheet. Pour remaining garlic-butter mix over them.
- Bake – Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, until potatoes are tender and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature (use a Meat Thermometer).
- Finish with Parmesan – Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over everything during the last 5 minutes of baking for that gooey golden crust.
Pro Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking – this keeps it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.
- For a heartier meal, add a side of buttered corn or creamy coleslaw.
Additional Tips & Tweaks
- Low-carb swap – Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Extra crispy potatoes – Parboil potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting.
- Flavor booster – Add a spoonful of pesto or ranch seasoning to the garlic mix.
- Diet-friendly tweak – Use skinless chicken breasts and less butter for a lighter version.
Nutrition Breakdown (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 560 mg |
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Breasts cook faster, so reduce the baking time by 5–7 minutes.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crisp.
Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely. Cook at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast and butter with olive oil.
Wrap-Up
Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes is a dish that never disappoints. It’s simple, rich in flavor, and makes the whole house smell amazing while cooking. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or someone who loves experimenting, this recipe is flexible and forgiving.
👉 Fun fact: Garlic and Parmesan have been paired in Italian cooking for centuries because garlic enhances the umami flavor of Parmesan – that’s why this combo feels so addictive!
So grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying meals you’ll ever cook.
