When it comes to hearty, flavorful meals that are easy to prepare, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes stands out as a crowd-pleaser. This one-pan dish combines tender, juicy chicken with crispy, golden potatoes, all drenched in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is simple to make yet full of bold flavors that everyone will love.
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. One-pan meals are always a win, especially when you’re looking to save time on both cooking and cleaning. With a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that is both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs elevates this classic chicken and potatoes dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find and work harmoniously to create an irresistible meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon dried oregano
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1 tablespoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup grated parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the chicken will cook perfectly while the potatoes become crisp and golden.
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In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
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Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. If you have more time, marinating the chicken for up to 30 minutes will deepen the flavor.
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In the same bowl, toss the potatoes with a little extra olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning mix.
Step 2: Assemble in the Baking Dish
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Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of a large baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet.
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Spread the potatoes around the chicken in an even layer. The potatoes should be in a single layer to ensure they crisp up nicely while roasting.
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Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken and potatoes for added richness.
Step 3: Roast the Dish
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Roast the chicken and potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden and crispy. You can flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
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In the final 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken breasts and potatoes, then return the dish to the oven to melt the cheese and create a crispy, golden crust on the chicken.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
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Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
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Serve immediately, ensuring each plate gets a hearty portion of chicken and crispy, cheesy potatoes.
Why This Recipe Works
Flavorful Chicken
The garlic and herb marinade infuses the chicken with deep, savory flavors, while the parmesan cheese gives it a salty, rich kick. Roasting the chicken in the oven ensures that it stays juicy and tender, while the top crisps up beautifully.
Crispy, Golden Potatoes
By tossing the potatoes in olive oil and seasoning, then roasting them alongside the chicken, you achieve perfectly crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside potatoes. The garlic and parmesan that melt onto the potatoes in the oven take them from basic to extraordinary.
One-Pan Convenience
One of the best aspects of this dish is how simple it is to make and clean up after. By cooking everything in one pan, you save time on prep and clean-up without sacrificing flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
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Use bone-in chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken breasts or thighs, these will work just as well. Bone-in chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful.
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Customize the herbs: While this recipe calls for oregano and thyme, feel free to swap them out for your favorite herbs. Rosemary or basil would be great alternatives.
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Add vegetables: To make this dish even more hearty, you can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli to the pan. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size as the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
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Make it spicy: For a kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the chicken and potatoes before roasting. This will add a subtle spiciness that complements the rich parmesan flavor.
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Check the doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a well-rounded meal on its own, but if you're looking to serve it with a side, here are some great options:
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Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is the perfect balance to the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Try roasting some carrots, brussels sprouts, or asparagus alongside the chicken for extra flavor and color.
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Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette to soak up any leftover parmesan and garlic sauce from the pan.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a perfect example of a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of juicy, tender chicken, crispy, golden potatoes, and a rich, garlicky parmesan topping makes this one-pan meal an irresistible choice for any dinner. Whether you're cooking for a family or just yourself, this dish will undoubtedly impress everyone at the table.