How 1 Skillet Makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Magic
Have you ever wondered how one simple skillet can turn ordinary chicken and potatoes into a mouthwatering, restaurant-style meal? With this Skillet Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe, you’ll discover the magic of perfectly crispy chicken paired with tender, golden potatoes—all infused with rich garlic and Parmesan flavors. This one-pan wonder saves time, reduces cleanup, and delivers bold, irresistible taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients List
To make this Skillet Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breasts – 500g (substitute for skinless chicken if you prefer lean meat)
- Baby potatoes – 300g, halved (russet or red potatoes work too)
- Garlic cloves – 4, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder as a shortcut)
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated (for best flavor)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (can use avocado or canola oil)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons (optional, for richer taste)
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon (optional, adds smoky depth)
Sensory tip: The aroma of garlic mingling with Parmesan while the chicken sears will instantly make your kitchen feel cozy and inviting.
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This is roughly 20% faster than traditional baked chicken and potato recipes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken and Potatoes
Pat chicken dry and season both chicken and potatoes with salt, pepper, and paprika. This ensures even cooking and flavorful bites.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place chicken in the skillet and sear 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Remove chicken temporarily and add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—avoid burning.
Step 4: Cook Potatoes
Add halved potatoes to the skillet, stirring to coat with garlic-infused oil. Cover and cook 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Potatoes
Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the potatoes. Reduce heat to low and cover to finish cooking for another 10 minutes.
Step 6: Add Parmesan
Sprinkle Parmesan over the chicken and potatoes, allowing it to melt slightly. For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of butter if desired. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for a rustic, inviting presentation.

Nutritional Information
Per serving (serves 2):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
High in protein and rich in flavor, this dish is both satisfying and balanced.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Swap butter for extra olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
- Use sweet potatoes for extra fiber and antioxidants.
- Reduce Parmesan slightly for lower sodium.
- Substitute chicken breasts for thighs to cut fat content.
These adjustments make the dish more diet-friendly without losing its signature flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad for freshness.
- Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans for a complete meal.
- For a fun twist, serve over creamy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.
Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet – causes steaming rather than searing.
- Burning garlic – add it last and watch carefully.
- Undercooking potatoes – cut uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Skipping Parmesan – it’s essential for that golden, cheesy crust.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Chicken can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
This Skillet Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe combines ease, flavor, and nutrition in one pan. Try it tonight, leave a review, or share your creative twists in the comments—and don’t forget to subscribe for more effortless, tasty meals!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw completely to ensure even cooking.
Q2: Can this be made in the oven only?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding Parmesan in the last 5 minutes.
Q3: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No, but paprika can be substituted with smoked or cayenne paprika for a kick.
Q4: Can I meal prep this for the week?
A: Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for 3 days and reheats nicely in a skillet.
Q5: Can I use chicken wings?
A: Yes, but adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
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