If you are craving something hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts or thighs baked alongside golden, crispy potatoes, all coated in a luscious garlic and Parmesan blend that brings everything to life. The combination of aromatic garlic, the nutty sharpness of Parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for any night of the week. It’s simple enough for busy evenings but special enough to impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the smoky notes of paprika to the fresh brightness of parsley, every component contributes something wonderful.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for lean protein, both work wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds herbaceous depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to coat the chicken for a beautifully roasted texture.
- 1.5 pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved: These potatoes are tender on the inside and crisp nicely on the outside.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Essential to achieve golden, crispy potatoes and to bring the garlic and Parmesan mixture together.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor component that infuses everything with its irresistible aroma.
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that salty, nutty richness that beautifully coats both the chicken and potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for the potato mix): Ensures the potatoes are perfectly seasoned.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry to help the seasoning stick better. Toss the chicken breasts or thighs in olive oil, then generously sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple but flavorful rub is the backbone of the dish, creating a delicious crust once cooked.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
While the chicken marinates a bit, halve your baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes. In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes in this mixture until every piece is coated with that garlicky, cheesy goodness. This step is key for getting the crispy and flavorful potatoes everyone will love.
Step 3: Assemble for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish or sheet, arrange the seasoned chicken and surround it with the Parmesan-coated potatoes. Spreading everything in a single layer ensures even cooking and a perfect roast texture. The chicken and potatoes will roast simultaneously, letting their flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden and crisp on the edges. A little tip is to check the internal temperature of the chicken; 165°F is perfect. You want your chicken juicy, and your potatoes with that irresistible crunchy-chewy contrast.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a lovely burst of green color but also brings a fresh, slightly peppery note that lifts the dish. You might also consider adding a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a twist of lemon zest for some brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to keep things balanced, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans complements the rich flavors perfectly. A side of crusty bread would also be a great addition to soak up any delicious garlicky Parmesan juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family meal or dinner party, plate sliced chicken atop a bed of the roasted potatoes and drizzle any pan juices over the top. Arrange additional fresh herbs around the plate and perhaps add a few Parmesan shavings for an elegant touch. If you want to switch things up, try serving the chicken and potato mixture wrapped in warm tortillas for a tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe should be cooled and transferred to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for some fantastic next-day meals.
Freezing
This recipe also freezes nicely if you want to prep ahead. Place cooled chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen leftovers will maintain their best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, use a conventional oven or toaster oven set at 350°F (175°C) to help maintain the crisp texture of the potatoes and prevent the chicken from drying out. Reheat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful but breasts work just as well. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure thighs are fully cooked through.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic really brings the best flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Just adjust quantity to taste since powdered garlic is more concentrated.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is gluten-free as long as you check that your Parmesan cheese and seasoning blends don’t contain any gluten additives.
What type of potatoes work best?
Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they roast evenly and get crispy without drying out. Avoid waxy potatoes that might stay too soft.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan?
This version relies on chicken and Parmesan cheese, but you could swap the chicken for tofu or plant-based protein and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a delicious vegan take.
Final Thoughts
Your next go-to meal just might be this incredibly satisfying Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe. It combines easy prep with heartwarming flavors that come together without fuss. Whether feeding family, friends, or just enjoying a cozy dinner for one, this dish is sure to become a cherished classic in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch everyone ask for seconds.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with Italian herbs and smoked paprika, paired with crispy roasted baby potatoes tossed in garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare in just under an hour, it’s a comforting and savory dish suitable for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Potatoes
- 1.5 pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with the olive oil, then coat them with the seasoning mixture. Set aside to marinate briefly while preparing the potatoes.
- Prep the potatoes: Halve the baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes and place them in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the mixture.
- Arrange for baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet or roasting pan, spread the potatoes in an even layer. Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of or alongside the potatoes, ensuring even spacing for roasting.
- Roast the dish: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender. Halfway through cooking, stir the potatoes gently to promote even browning, and baste the chicken with pan juices if desired.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and potatoes for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; thighs may yield juicier results.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds freshness and color to the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked without drying out.
