Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

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When I crave a meal that’s comforting, hearty, and easy to throw together, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is often my go-to. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken thighs nestled among crispy, golden potatoes all coated in a rich garlic-parmesan sauce is simply irresistible. The beauty of this dish is that it looks and tastes like it took hours, but it comes together with minimal fuss — perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.

I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to please. The aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, the golden crisp of the chicken skin, and the creamy, cheesy finish always make it a winner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this is a recipe that brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This dish has everything you want in a comforting meal: rich flavors, creamy textures, and a lovely balance of crispiness and tenderness. The garlic-parmesan sauce elevates both the chicken and the potatoes, creating a cohesive dish that’s satisfying and indulgent. Plus, it’s all made in one pan — which means fewer dishes to clean afterward! It’s versatile, too: pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, I personally love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay incredibly juicy and tender during cooking and absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce. However, you can also use bone-in, skin-on thighs if you prefer an extra crispy exterior and richer flavor. Chicken breasts work as well, though you’ll want to be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility — you can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Chicken: Swap thighs for chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds are my favorite, but you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.
• Cheese: Parmesan is classic, but you can experiment with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color, but thyme or rosemary can bring a more earthy depth.
• Cream: If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.

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Ingredients for This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Thighs
  The star of the dish — juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
• Baby Potatoes
  These roast beautifully and soak up the garlic-parmesan goodness.
• Olive Oil
  Helps brown the chicken and crisp up the potatoes.
• Garlic
  The heart of the sauce — rich, aromatic, and essential.
• Parmesan Cheese
  Adds nutty, salty depth and creates a luscious, creamy finish.
• Chicken Broth
  Provides moisture and enhances the savory profile of the sauce.
• Butter
  Gives richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper
  Simple seasonings that bring out all the natural flavors.
• Fresh Parsley
  A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and brightness.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. This helps create that beautiful golden crust. Halve or quarter your baby potatoes so they roast evenly and crisp up nicely.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side, until they develop a deep golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage — you’ll finish them in the oven.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium, then add a bit more olive oil or butter to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant — be careful not to burn it!

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Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a knob of butter to create a silky, flavorful sauce.

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Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the potatoes. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, spooning extra sauce over each portion.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

The total cooking time for this dish is quite manageable:

• Searing the chicken: about 8–10 minutes
• Baking in the oven: 20–25 minutes at 400°F (200°C)

In total, you’re looking at around 30–35 minutes of cooking time, depending on the size of your chicken thighs and potatoes. Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Pat the chicken dry before searing — this helps you get that golden, crispy exterior.
• Don’t rush the sear. Let the chicken develop a nice crust; it adds loads of flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible. It melts better and delivers a superior taste.
• Taste the sauce before baking. You can adjust the seasoning to your preference — a little extra Parmesan or garlic can take it over the top.
• Cut potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate as the chicken.
• Let it rest for a couple of minutes after baking so the juices can redistribute, keeping everything moist and flavorful.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a simple dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, a few common missteps can sneak in:

• Skipping the sear: Browning the chicken adds incredible depth of flavor. Don’t skip it!
• Overcrowding the pan: Give your chicken and potatoes space so they can brown, not steam.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly — if it burns, it turns bitter. Keep an eye on it.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Freshly grated is best.
• Forgetting to taste the sauce: Always check your seasoning before it goes in the oven.
• Cutting potatoes too large: Larger chunks may remain undercooked. Keep them bite-sized and even.
• Not preheating the oven: Starting with a hot oven ensures proper cooking and crisp edges.

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What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

Pairing this dish with the right sides elevates the meal beautifully. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

A Crisp Green Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and Parmesan sauce.

Steamed Green Beans

Their tender-crisp texture and bright flavor complement the savory main perfectly.

Roasted Asparagus

Quick to make and adds a lovely, earthy note to the plate.

Garlic Bread

For soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Lemon-Butter Broccoli

A zesty, refreshing side that cuts through the creaminess.

Sautéed Spinach

Nutritious, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with the garlic tones in the dish.

Creamed Corn

Sweet and creamy, it adds another dimension of comfort.

A Glass of White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is a fantastic match for this meal.

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Storage Instructions

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce, or microwave gently until heated through.
• Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, though the texture of the potatoes may soften a bit. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~450–500 kcal
• Protein: ~30g
• Fat: ~28g
• Saturated Fat: ~10g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~2g
• Sodium: ~600mg
• Cholesterol: ~120mg

Please note that these values will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when you cut into the chicken.

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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Just be sure to monitor them closely as breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. You may want to reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

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What type of potatoes work best?

Baby potatoes, Yukon Golds, or red potatoes are all great options. They hold their shape well and get beautifully crispy on the outside.

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Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep it ahead by searing the chicken and building the sauce, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, assemble everything in the skillet and bake fresh.

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Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Absolutely! Veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans can be added during the last 10–15 minutes of baking so they stay crisp-tender.

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Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes — as long as your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free, this dish naturally contains no gluten.

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Can I double the recipe?

You can! Just use a larger pan or two pans to avoid overcrowding and ensure everything browns properly.

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How can I make the sauce creamier?

For an extra luxurious sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when adding the Parmesan.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and so simple to make. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight meal or feeding guests, this dish always impresses. Once you try it, I’m sure it will find a spot in your regular rotation too. Enjoy every bite!

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