Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender, juicy chicken, golden crispy potatoes, and a savory garlic Parmesan sauce for a meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish delivers bold flavors and minimal cleanup—music to any busy cook’s ears!

The star of the dish is the balance between the earthy roasted potatoes, the savory chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The combination of fresh herbs and melted Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors, making it a recipe that’s both comforting and elegant.

With a focus on simple ingredients and easy preparation, this skillet meal is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet hits all the right notes for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one skillet, saving time and reducing cleanup.

Bold Flavors: Garlic and Parmesan cheese create a rich and savory profile that elevates humble ingredients.

Versatile: Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or even a special occasion.

Customizable: Swap out the chicken or add veggies to make it your own.

Comfort Food Classic: Hearty and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with potatoes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Potatoes:

• 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Roast the Potatoes

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Toss the halved baby potatoes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the potatoes cut-side down in the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and melt the butter in the empty space.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the potatoes.
2. Spoon the garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and potatoes before serving.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.

Ingredient Background

Chicken Breasts

Lean and protein-packed, chicken breasts are the perfect canvas for absorbing the rich flavors of the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Baby Potatoes

Baby potatoes have a tender texture and naturally sweet flavor, making them ideal for roasting. Leaving the skins on adds a nice crispness and extra nutrients.

Garlic and Parmesan Cheese

Garlic and Parmesan are the heart of the sauce, providing a savory, umami-rich base that pairs beautifully with both chicken and potatoes.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream gives the sauce a velvety, luxurious texture that coats the chicken and potatoes perfectly.

Technique Tips

Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Crisp Potatoes: Place the potatoes cut-side down in the skillet and avoid overcrowding to get that perfect golden crust.

Thick Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently, stirring frequently, to prevent it from breaking or curdling.

Deglaze the Pan: Use the chicken broth to scrape up the browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor in the sauce.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Family-Style Platter: Serve the chicken and potatoes on a large platter, drizzled with sauce and garnished with parsley for an elegant presentation.

Casserole Style: Transfer the cooked chicken, potatoes, and sauce to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional Parmesan, and broil for a few minutes for a cheesy crust.

Bite-Sized: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and skewer with roasted potatoes for a fun appetizer.

Over Pasta: Serve the chicken and potatoes over fettuccine or penne for a hearty pasta dish.

Additional Tips for Success

Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can result in a grainy texture.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F to avoid dryness.

Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy version.

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.

Lemon Garlic: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.

Herbaceous Boost: Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for an aromatic variation.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with fresh sauce.

Reheating Tip: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to keep the sauce from drying out.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Light Cream: Use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce.

Skinless Chicken Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a lower-fat yet flavorful alternative.

Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes into the skillet for added nutrients and color.

Less Butter: Reduce the amount of butter in the sauce, replacing it with olive oil for a heart-healthier option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a side of roasted broccoli or a simple garden salad for a balanced meal.

Dinner Party: Serve with garlic bread and a bottle of white wine for an elegant but approachable menu.

Holiday Spread: Add this dish to your holiday table as a versatile main or side dish.

Meal Prep: Divide into meal prep containers with a portion of green beans or roasted carrots for easy weekday lunches.

Special Equipment

Cast-Iron Skillet: Retains heat well and ensures even cooking for both chicken and potatoes.

Meat Thermometer: Guarantees perfectly cooked chicken without any guesswork.

Microplane: Ideal for grating Parmesan cheese or zesting lemon for a citrusy touch.

Tongs: Makes flipping chicken and tossing potatoes in the skillet easier and more precise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. What’s the best type of potato to use?
   Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Use a plant-based cream alternative and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Simmer the sauce on low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   Garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light salad pair perfectly.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance and reheat them with the sauce just before serving.
7. Is there a gluten-free option?
   The dish is naturally gluten-free as long as your Parmesan cheese and chicken broth are certified gluten-free.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Conclusion

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy potatoes and juicy chicken, coated in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This one-pan meal is a weeknight lifesaver and a dinner party showstopper, combining simplicity with sophistication. With endless customization options and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet tonight, and savor the comforting flavors of a truly satisfying dish!

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