Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1.5 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Some recipes just hit all the right notes—comforting, easy, and packed with flavor—and Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is exactly that kind of dish. I love this recipe because it’s a one-pan wonder that brings together golden, juicy chicken thighs and buttery-soft potatoes all bathed in garlicky herb goodness, then finished with a generous topping of melted parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that makes the whole house smell amazing and brings everyone to the table without having to call twice.

What makes this dish a regular in my kitchen is the way it balances simplicity with bold flavor. Whether I’m cooking for family on a busy weeknight or having friends over for a casual dinner, this recipe always delivers. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or complicated steps, but the end result feels like something you’d order at a cozy countryside bistro. If you’re into hearty, satisfying meals that practically make themselves, you’re going to fall hard for this one.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

One-pan meal: Less cleanup, more flavor. Everything cooks together for maximum taste.
Crowd-pleasing: It’s rich, cheesy, garlicky, and filling—what’s not to love?
Customizable: You can easily switch up the herbs or swap the cheese.
Weeknight friendly: Easy to prep and ready in under an hour.
Meal-prep worthy: Makes fantastic leftovers that taste just as good reheated.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

I always reach for boneless, skinless chicken thighs when I make this dish. They stay tender and juicy through roasting, and their richer flavor pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan. However, if you prefer white meat, chicken breasts will work too—just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out. Bone-in, skin-on pieces are also an option if you want extra crispiness and depth, but they may require a bit more cooking time.

As for the potatoes, baby Yukon Golds are my favorite. They’re naturally buttery and hold their shape well while soaking up all the garlicky goodness. Red potatoes or even fingerlings would be great alternatives too.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be. If you’re missing an ingredient or just want to switch things up, here are a few easy swaps:

Chicken thighs → Chicken breasts or drumsticks (adjust cooking time accordingly)
Yukon Gold potatoes → Red potatoes, fingerlings, or even sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness
Parmesan cheese → Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even mozzarella for a gooey finish
Fresh garlic → Garlic powder in a pinch (use about 1 tsp per 3 cloves)
Italian seasoning → A mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary works just as well
Butter → Olive oil or ghee for a slightly different richness

Don’t be afraid to make it your own. That’s the beauty of home cooking—flavor it the way you like!

Ingredients for This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Each ingredient in this dish plays an essential role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s in the recipe:

Chicken thighs – The star of the dish. Juicy, tender, and flavorful, they hold up beautifully in the oven without drying out.
Baby Yukon Gold potatoes – Creamy and buttery, these roast perfectly alongside the chicken and soak up all the garlicky juices.
Fresh garlic – Essential for that bold, aromatic base. It infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.
Butter – Adds richness and helps the garlic coat the chicken and potatoes evenly.
Olive oil – Helps with roasting and adds a slightly fruity, peppery flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Melts over the top for a salty, cheesy crust that’s utterly crave-worthy.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that brings a comforting, classic flavor.
Salt and black pepper – For balance and to enhance all the other ingredients.
Chopped fresh parsley – Sprinkled on at the end for a fresh, herby finish that brightens the whole dish.

Each of these ingredients is simple, but when combined, they make a dish that tastes like far more effort than it actually takes.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats up, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear better. Cut the baby potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size, so they roast evenly.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is going to coat everything in flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s the soul of this dish!

Step 3: Toss and Arrange

In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes and chicken. Pour the garlic butter mixture over everything and toss until well coated. Then, transfer it all to a large oven-safe skillet or sheet pan, spreading everything out in a single layer. Make sure the chicken pieces are skin-side up (if using skin-on), or just exposed on top for boneless cuts.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the skillet or pan in the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes. Halfway through, give the potatoes a little stir to make sure they roast evenly.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan

Once the chicken is nearly done and looking golden, sprinkle the parmesan cheese generously over each piece. Return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot straight from the pan—family style! It’s rustic, hearty, and completely irresistible.

How Long to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

The total cook time for this dish is about 40 to 45 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The chicken should be golden and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), and the potatoes should be fork-tender and lightly crisped around the edges. Adding the parmesan in the last 5–10 minutes gives it just enough time to melt and brown slightly without burning.

If you’re using bone-in chicken or larger potato chunks, you may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it and test for doneness.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Dry the chicken: This helps it brown better in the oven and avoids steaming.
Use similar-sized potatoes: To make sure everything cooks evenly, aim for uniform potato chunks.
Don’t skip the garlic butter: That mix of garlic, butter, oil, and herbs is what brings all the flavor.
Line your pan if needed: If you’re using a sheet pan, lining it with parchment paper or foil makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Finish with a broil (optional): For extra crispy edges and golden cheese, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end—just watch it closely.
Let it rest: Give the dish a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. The juices will settle, and it’ll be easier to serve.
Garnish just before serving: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor—don’t skip it!
Taste and season: Once it’s out of the oven, give a quick taste and sprinkle with a touch more salt or parmesan if needed.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can run into a few hiccups if you’re not careful. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

Overcrowding the pan: This causes steaming instead of roasting. Use a large pan or baking sheet to keep everything in a single layer.
Undercooked potatoes: Cut them small enough to cook at the same rate as the chicken, or parboil for 5 minutes if they’re thick.
Adding cheese too early: Parmesan can burn quickly. Add it only in the last 5–10 minutes of baking.
Skipping the seasoning: Underseasoned potatoes or chicken will taste flat. Be generous with salt and herbs.
Using wet chicken: If it’s not patted dry first, you’ll end up with soggy skin and uneven browning.
Not flipping or tossing the potatoes halfway: Helps them cook evenly and get that golden, crispy edge.
Forgetting to preheat the oven: A hot oven is key to a good roast.
Ignoring resting time: Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking helps all the juices settle and intensifies flavor.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli brings a slightly bitter contrast that works beautifully.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up the garlicky, buttery juices left in the pan.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory mushrooms are a natural match with parmesan and herbs.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, smoky corn adds texture and a little pop of color to the plate.

Garlic Green Beans

A bright and zesty side that complements the garlic already in the main dish.

A glass of Chardonnay

If you’re pairing it with wine, go with a buttery Chardonnay to match the richness of the dish.

Lemon Herb Yogurt Sauce

A cool, tangy dip or drizzle that cuts through the richness and adds a fresh, citrusy twist.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes stores beautifully. Let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second bursts.
Freezer: This dish is freezer-friendly too! Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pro tip: If reheating in the oven, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan and cover it with foil to keep things juicy.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

These values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and portions used:

Calories: 485
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 620mg
Cholesterol: 125mg

This recipe strikes a nice balance of protein and carbs, making it hearty and satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for their juicy texture and rich flavor, but chicken breasts or bone-in cuts also work—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything ahead—marinate the chicken and chop the potatoes. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and bake when ready.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

How do I make this recipe spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mix. It gives a subtle kick that works really well with the parmesan.

Can I use frozen chicken or potatoes?

Frozen chicken should be fully thawed before baking to cook evenly. For potatoes, use fresh if possible—frozen ones can become mushy in this dish.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No problem! Mix your own using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. It’s easy and just as flavorful.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, and skip the parmesan or sub with a dairy-free cheese. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.

Will this work in an air fryer?

Definitely! Cook in batches if needed. Air fry the chicken and potatoes at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Add the cheese at the end and air fry for a few more minutes to melt.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen hero without even trying. It’s flavorful, comforting, and comes together in one pan—what more could we ask for? Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving guests on the weekend, it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy. I always find myself coming back to it because it’s just that good—and I know once you try it, you’ll feel the same. Happy cooking!