If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe will be your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs with a crisply golden skin, juicy baby potatoes roasted until perfectly soft and infused with garlic and Parmesan flavors that elevate every bite. It’s a straightforward, comforting dish that uses simple ingredients but creates a flavor combination so satisfying, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe plays a part in building layers of irresistible flavor, from the savory chicken to the cheesy, garlicky potatoes. Keeping the list simple lets each item shine, so no fancy pantry raids required.
- Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred): These give extra flavor and stay juicy, with skin that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Baby potatoes, quartered: They cook evenly and soak up all the garlicky goodness around them.
- Fresh garlic, minced: Adds that bold, fragrant depth you crave in a savory roast.
- Parmesan cheese, shredded: Melts into a golden crust that’s nutty and irresistible.
- Olive oil: Helps crisp the chicken and roast the potatoes perfectly without drying them out.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors and balance the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A burst of color and fresh brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which ensures a perfectly hot bake for crispy skin and tender potatoes. While it warms up, quarter the baby potatoes so they cook evenly, mince the garlic to release its full aroma, and chop fresh parsley to add that lovely pop of green at the end.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is key for getting that crispy skin you want. Then, rub them all over with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse the meat with a lovely herbaceous kick before cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a generous splash of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sear undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the skin to become beautifully browned and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, then set the chicken aside. This extra step locks in the juices and creates incredible texture.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes and Garlic
To the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the quartered potatoes along with the minced garlic. Stir them around so they’re well-coated and start to brown slightly in the flavorful chicken drippings, which enhances both taste and color.
Step 5: Bake Everything Together
Return the seared chicken thighs on top of the potatoes in the pan. Slide the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking through and the potatoes become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan and Broil
When you’ve got about 5 minutes left, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Turn the oven to broil and let the cheese melt and turn golden for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn — this step adds a gorgeous, savory crust that steals the show.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in those juicy flavors. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten the entire dish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is simple but essential to add color and a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich Parmesan and garlic. For an extra touch, a light squeeze of lemon juice over the top can lift the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies balances the plate and adds freshness. Roasted asparagus or a tangy coleslaw complement the creamy, cheesy notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right from the oven-safe skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe. Or, plate it individually by arranging the chicken atop a scoop of potatoes, garnished with parsley. For a dinner party, a drizzle of flavored olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a little pizzazz.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s lunch even better. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe, but for best texture, freeze the chicken and potatoes separately if possible. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then seal in freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the chicken skin crisp and the potatoes tender, or use a skillet on medium heat. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that delicious texture, but it works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just be mindful that chicken breasts tend to dry out faster, so reduce the baking time slightly and consider brining or marinating them first to keep them juicy.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing isn’t strictly required but highly recommended because it locks in moisture and gives you that coveted crispy skin and rich flavor base from the fond left in the pan.
Can I use frozen potatoes if I don’t have fresh baby potatoes?
Fresh baby potatoes work best for texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen, thaw and pat them dry first. They may cook faster, so watch closely to prevent overcooking.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
As a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite or a mild cheddar mix for creaminess, though the flavor profile will vary slightly from the classic Parmesan punch.
How spicy is this dish?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is not spicy at all; it’s all about savory, cheesy, and herby flavors. You can add chili flakes if you want a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe has everything you want in a comfort meal: simplicity, incredible flavor, and the ability to satisfy family and friends alike. It’s such a joy to prepare and even more delightful to share, so don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe features juicy, bone-in chicken thighs seared to perfection and baked alongside tender baby potatoes infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, finished with a golden Parmesan crust and fresh parsley garnish. A comforting, flavorful one-pan dish perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for potatoes)
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 1 lb baby potatoes, quartered
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Quarter the baby potatoes, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh parsley so they are ready to use.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for a flavorful base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–6 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside temporarily.
- Cook Potatoes and Garlic: Add an extra drizzle of olive oil to the skillet and toss in the quartered potatoes and minced garlic. Stir well to coat the potatoes in oil and let them cook for a few minutes until they begin to brown slightly.
- Bake Chicken and Potatoes: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back on top of the potatoes in the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
- Add Parmesan and Broil: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken thighs. Switch the oven to broil and broil for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm for a beautifully finished dish.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for best flavor and crispy skin.
- Searing the chicken before baking locks in juices and adds a crispy texture.
- Be careful when broiling the Parmesan cheese to avoid burning.
- Oven-safe skillet is essential for both searing and baking in one pan.
- Freshly minced garlic adds a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
