This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy, golden-brown textures. The tender, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, while the skillet-roasted baby potatoes add a satisfying crunch.
What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity—everything comes together in one pan for an effortless meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving a comforting, homemade dinner, this recipe is a winner. Serve it with a side of greens or enjoy it as is for a hearty, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add the halved baby potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy on the edges.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and let it cook in the sauce for another 8-10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet – A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. This one-pan dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to perfection, nestled in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and paired with crispy baby potatoes that soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish stands out because of its simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory sauce that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken. Meanwhile, the baby potatoes develop a crispy, golden-brown texture that provides the perfect contrast to the creamy sauce. Everything is cooked in a single skillet, meaning fewer dishes to clean and an easy, streamlined cooking process.
Another great feature of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free dinner option or a low-carb twist, you can easily adapt this dish to fit your dietary needs.
The Magic of Garlic and Parmesan
Garlic and Parmesan are a classic duo that elevate any dish with their bold and aromatic flavors. Garlic adds a deep, earthy taste that enhances the overall savoriness of the dish, while Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, umami-rich element that creates a creamy, indulgent sauce. When combined with butter and heavy cream, these ingredients produce a luxurious texture that coats the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
This sauce is what makes the dish irresistible. The garlic is sautéed in butter to bring out its natural sweetness, and when combined with Parmesan and cream, it transforms into a velvety coating that clings to every bite. The result is a restaurant-quality meal made with simple pantry staples.
Why Skillet Cooking Is a Game Changer
One of the best things about this recipe is that everything is cooked in a single skillet. Skillet cooking has many benefits:
- Less Cleanup: Using just one pan means fewer dishes to wash.
- Better Flavor Development: Cooking everything together allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Efficiency: The even heat distribution of a skillet ensures that both the chicken and potatoes cook perfectly.
Using a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet can take this dish to the next level. These types of pans retain heat well, allowing the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. They also help achieve that beautiful crispiness on the potatoes, giving them a satisfying crunch.
Tips for Perfecting This Dish
To ensure the best results, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts offer a leaner option.
- Sear the Chicken First: Browning the chicken before adding the sauce locks in flavor and creates a delicious caramelized crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Giving the ingredients enough space ensures even cooking and helps the potatoes develop a crispy texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Parmesan: Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor. Pre-packaged garlic and cheese often lack the depth of taste that freshly minced garlic and grated Parmesan bring.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. If you like it thinner, add a splash of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with various side dishes to complete your meal. Here are some ideas:
- A Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans complement the flavors well.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Cauliflower Mash: A great low-carb alternative to potatoes that still pairs beautifully with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this dish tastes just as good the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and make the sauce fresh when reheating.
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s easily adaptable. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add Vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Use Different Cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with Asiago, Romano, or even mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Swap the Potatoes: If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, use cauliflower, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts instead of potatoes.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce makes it a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, with its easy one-pan preparation and endless customization options, it’s a meal you can enjoy over and over again without getting bored.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a weeknight dinner that delivers big on flavor, this dish is a must-try. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen. Try it once, and it just might become a regular on your dinner rotation!