This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken coated in tasty garlic and parmesan loves to hang out with crispy potatoes for a cozy meal.
Honestly, this dish is like a hug on a plate! I love that it cooks all in one pan, making cleanup quick and leaving more time for relaxing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I use bone-in, skin-on thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, but they can dry out more easily. Skinless options are also available for a lighter dish!
Baby Potatoes: They’re fantastic for their creamy texture. Don’t have baby potatoes? Regular potatoes are fine too! Just chop them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a yummy, nutty taste. If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to flavor. Garlic powder can also work in a pinch—just use about a teaspoon, but fresh gives the best taste. If you’re not a big fan of garlic, feel free to reduce the amount.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken lies in preparation. Here’s how I make sure my chicken turns out perfectly every time:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice golden skin.
- Make sure to rub that garlic parmesan mixture all over, getting under the skin if you can. This infuses amazing flavor.
- Temperature is everything! Using a thermometer to check for 165°F helps avoid overcooking.
Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain moisture. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
For The Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tbsp unsalted butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and about 35-45 minutes to bake, depending on your oven and chicken size. All in all, you can expect a delicious meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken and potatoes evenly.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for both the chicken and potatoes.
3. Coat the Potatoes:
Add the halved or quartered baby potatoes to the bowl with the garlic Parmesan mixture. Toss them gently until they’re nicely coated. This ensures every bite of potato is flavorful!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated potatoes out in a single layer on a large baking sheet or in an ovenproof skillet. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy.
5. Prepare the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken thighs dry for a better sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Then, rub the leftover garlic Parmesan mixture over the chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated.
6. Combine on the Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes on the baking sheet. If you’re feeling indulgent, dot small pieces of butter on top of both the chicken and potatoes for added richness!
7. Bake it Up:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Broil for a Crispy Finish:
For a golden, crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs provide juicy flavor, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just be aware that cooking times may vary—check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re done.
What If I Don’t Have Baby Potatoes?
No worries! You can use regular potatoes; just chop them into smaller, even-sized pieces. You can also try using sweet potatoes for a delicious twist!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the best texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and potatoes ahead! Simply coat them in the garlic Parmesan mixture, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions from there!
