In our home, weeknight dinners need to be two things: delicious and easy. Let’s be honest, after a long day, the last thing anyone wants is a complicated, multi-step recipe. That’s why this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes dish has become an absolute staple in our rotation. From the moment the savory aroma of garlic and parmesan starts to fill the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, coated in a flavorful, cheesy crust, while the potatoes are perfectly roasted and infused with all that delicious garlicky goodness. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns up their nose at anything green, happily devours this meal. It’s a simple, comforting dish that feels special enough for a weekend but is effortless enough for a Tuesday night. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a family favorite in your house too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on): 2.5 lbs – These provide the most flavor and stay incredibly moist during baking. Bone-in and skin-on is key for that extra richness and crispy skin, but boneless, skinless thighs or breasts can be used if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes): 1.5 lbs – These varieties hold their shape well during roasting and have a creamy texture. Yukon Golds offer a slightly buttery flavor, while red potatoes are a bit waxier. You can also use Russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier inside, but they might become slightly drier.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves – Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor that is the heart of this dish. Don’t skimp on the garlic! Mince it finely for even distribution and maximum flavor release.
• Parmesan Cheese (Grated): 1 cup – Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly. Look for Parmigiano-Reggiano for a truly authentic taste.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup – Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and helps the chicken and potatoes brown beautifully. It also contributes to the overall richness of the dish.
• Butter (Unsalted): 4 tablespoons – Butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of the garlic parmesan sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
• Dried Italian Herbs: 2 teaspoons – This blend of herbs (usually oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram) adds a savory, herbaceous note that complements the garlic and parmesan perfectly. You can also use a mix of your favorite individual dried herbs.
• Paprika (Smoked or Sweet): 1 teaspoon – Paprika adds a subtle smoky or sweet flavor and beautiful color to the chicken and potatoes. Smoked paprika provides a deeper, more robust flavor, while sweet paprika is milder and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: To taste – Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for seasoning. Season generously to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: To taste – Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent bite and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for garnish): 2 tablespoons – Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color as a garnish. It’s optional but highly recommended.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes dish right in your own kitchen.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes and perfectly cooked chicken. While the oven is preheating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, while foil is also effective and readily available. Using a large baking sheet ensures that the chicken and potatoes are not overcrowded, which allows them to roast properly and brown evenly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and chop your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Uniformly sized pieces will cook at the same rate, ensuring that some aren’t undercooked while others are overcooked. There’s no need to peel Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer to keep the skin on for added nutrients and texture. Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl.
3. Season the Potatoes: Drizzle the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help them crisp up in the oven and prevent them from drying out. Season generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Toss everything together to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Even seasoning at this stage is important for flavorful potatoes.
4. Spread Potatoes on Baking Sheet and Start Roasting: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure proper spacing. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. This initial roasting step gives the potatoes a head start and ensures they are tender by the time the chicken is added.
5. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the flavorful garlic parmesan sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Sautéing the garlic in butter infuses the butter with its aromatic flavor. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the Parmesan cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined. The residual heat from the butter will melt the cheese.
6. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving crispy skin. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
7. Add Chicken to Baking Sheet and Coat with Sauce: After the potatoes have roasted for 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken thighs amongst the potatoes on the baking sheet. Pour the prepared garlic parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated. Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss the potatoes to coat them in the sauce as well.
8. Return to Oven and Continue Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The potatoes should also be tender and golden brown. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken thighs and your oven.
9. Broil for Crispy Topping (Optional): For extra crispy chicken skin and a golden-brown, bubbly parmesan crust, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as broilers can heat very quickly. Broiling is an optional step but highly recommended if you love crispy skin.
10. Rest and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Serving Size: 1 Chicken Thigh & Approximately 1 Cup of Potatoes
• Servings Per Recipe: 6
• Calories: 550-650 kcal
• Protein: 40-50g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and should be used as a general guideline. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Prep Time Breakdown

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes recipe is wonderfully efficient when it comes to preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Active Prep Time: Approximately 20 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the potatoes, mincing the garlic, grating the parmesan, preparing the sauce, and seasoning the chicken. The majority of the time is spent on simple vegetable prep and sauce mixing.
• Cook Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes. This includes the initial roasting of the potatoes and the subsequent roasting of the chicken and potatoes together. Oven time is largely hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks.
• Total Time (Prep + Cook): Approximately 1 hour 5-1 hour 15 minutes. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in just over an hour.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but adding a simple side dish or two can elevate it to a truly memorable dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad:
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
  • Consider adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a vibrant and healthy side.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:
  • Broccoli or Asparagus: Steamed or roasted broccoli or asparagus are classic pairings with chicken and potatoes. Their slightly bitter notes complement the savory flavors of the dish.
  • Green Beans: Sautéed or roasted green beans with a touch of lemon and garlic would also be a delicious and simple side.
  • Carrots: Roasted carrots with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup offer a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread:
  • Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra garlic parmesan sauce from the pan.
  • A warm baguette or sourdough bread would be perfect for dipping.
• Lemon Wedges:
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
  • Lemon wedges are a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall taste.
• Creamy Coleslaw:
  • For a more casual meal, a creamy coleslaw can provide a cool and crunchy counterpoint to the warm and savory chicken and potatoes.
• Mashed Cauliflower:
  • For a lower-carb option, serve with mashed cauliflower instead of or alongside the potatoes. Mashed cauliflower can be made creamy and flavorful with garlic and herbs.
• Quinoa or Rice:
  • If you want to add a grain to the meal, quinoa or rice can be served as a side to absorb the delicious sauce.

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes are absolutely perfect every time, here are some expert tips and tricks:

1. Use Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs for Maximum Flavor and Moisture: As mentioned earlier, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe. The bone adds depth of flavor and helps the chicken stay moist during cooking, while the skin renders and crisps up beautifully, creating a delightful textural contrast.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the chicken and potatoes to steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy rather than crispy potatoes and chicken. Ensure there is space between the pieces for proper air circulation. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
3. Pre-Roast the Potatoes for Optimal Texture: Giving the potatoes a head start by roasting them for 20 minutes before adding the chicken ensures they are fully cooked and tender by the time the chicken is done. This also helps them develop a nice golden-brown crust.
4. Freshly Grated Parmesan is Key: Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as smoothly or have the same rich flavor as freshly grated Parmesan. For the best results, grate your own Parmesan cheese right before using it.
5. Adjust Garlic to Your Preference: This recipe calls for 6-8 cloves of garlic, but you can adjust the amount to your personal preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more! If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, start with fewer cloves.
6. Season Generously at Each Stage: Seasoning is crucial for flavorful food. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Season the potatoes, the chicken, and the sauce at each stage of the recipe to ensure every element is well-seasoned and delicious.
7. Use a Meat Thermometer to Check Chicken Doneness: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Let it Rest Before Serving: Resting the chicken for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven is an important step. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Don’t skip this step!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes to help you troubleshoot and customize the recipe to your liking:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer. However, chicken breasts tend to be drier than thighs. To prevent them from drying out, reduce the cooking time slightly and make sure not to overcook them. Also, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.

Q2: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape, you can use other types of potatoes like Russet potatoes for a fluffier inside or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the potato type and size.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes are best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. You can chop the potatoes, mince the garlic, and grate the parmesan cheese in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, assemble and bake as directed.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q5: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven or air fryer to help maintain crispiness. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the chicken skin and potatoes may not be as crispy.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet besides potatoes?
A: Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to the baking sheet! Good options include broccoli florets, carrots, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. Add these vegetables along with the chicken for the last 25-30 minutes of cooking, adjusting cooking time as needed depending on the density of the vegetables.

Q7: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley for garnish?
A: Yes, if you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can use dried parsley for garnish. However, fresh parsley provides a brighter, fresher flavor and a more vibrant visual appeal. If using dried parsley, use about 1 teaspoon and sprinkle it over the dish before serving.

Q8: My parmesan cheese isn’t melting smoothly, what went wrong?
A: This is likely because you are using pre-grated parmesan cheese which contains cellulose to prevent clumping, hindering melting. Always use freshly grated parmesan cheese, ideally Parmigiano-Reggiano, for the best melting and flavor. Ensure the butter is warm enough to melt the cheese when you add it to the sauce. If it’s still not melting smoothly, you can gently warm the sauce over very low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted.

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