If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, juicy chicken and perfectly roasted baby potatoes all smothered in a luscious, creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients makes this dish not only incredibly satisfying but also wonderfully straightforward to prepare. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays its part, from the crispy potatoes adding a golden crunch to the creamy garlic sauce bringing that irresistible richness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for lean protein.
- 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved: Small potatoes roast beautifully and soak up the sauce flavor perfectly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing your chicken to that perfect golden brown.
- Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth without overpowering anything.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic notes in the chicken seasoning.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich and silky base for your garlic sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: The star ingredient, delivering that fresh, punchy garlic flavor.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, savory depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a hint of herbaceous complexity.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild herbal flavor.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. This step locks in the juices while building a flavorful crust. Once done, remove your chicken from the skillet and set aside — don’t worry, it’s just the beginning of this delicious journey.
Step 2: Roast the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the halved baby potatoes cut side down. This helps them develop a beautifully crisp surface as they roast. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven and roast the potatoes for about 20 minutes. Using the skillet from the chicken ensures all those wonderful browned bits impart extra flavor to the potatoes, giving you a taste boost you won’t want to miss.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the potatoes roast, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, avoiding any bitterness. Then stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Let this silky mixture simmer for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements both the chicken and potatoes.
Step 4: Combine & Bake
Return the seared chicken back to the skillet nestled among the roasted potatoes. Pour the creamy garlic parmesan sauce evenly over everything. Pop it all into the oven again and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce is bubbly and luscious. This final bake melds all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked through, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a lovely burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, making sure to spoon plenty of that indulgent sauce over each portion. This is comfort food at its finest, designed to satisfy every craving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a mild herbal note that balances the rich garlic parmesan flavors beautifully. You can also sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch that’s always welcome.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe stands wonderfully on its own as a one-pan meal, but if you’d like to round it out, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness and crunch from these sides create delightful texture contrasts that elevate the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken sliced atop the potatoes instead of whole, drizzled generously with the sauce. You can also plate with a wedge of lemon on the side for some guests who enjoy a spritz of citrus brightness with their creamy dishes. Rustic flatbreads or crusty bread make perfect companions to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate can help preserve its creaminess during storage, but if combined, just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze without parsley garnish. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce appears too thick, stirring until smooth and warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more juiciness and flavor to the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe due to their higher fat content, making the dish even more succulent.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative and using coconut cream or a plant-based cream in place of heavy cream, along with a dairy-free parmesan substitute. The flavor will differ slightly but still tasty.
What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
You can use any small potatoes like fingerlings or cut regular potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly to ensure they cook through and become crispy.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead and freeze separately?
Yes, the creamy garlic parmesan sauce freezes well. Reheat it slowly on the stove, whisking gently to restore its creamy texture before combining with chicken and potatoes.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken the sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce. To thin it out, stir in a little more cream or milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is like sharing a comforting secret favorite that brings joy with every bite. Its combination of crispy chicken, tender potatoes, and creamy garlic parmesan sauce is both simple and spectacular. I truly encourage you to give it a try—once you do, it might just become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
