Pin it
This one-pan garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes combines tender, flavorful chicken with crispy potatoes, all infused with garlic and parmesan. It's the kind of meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and the need for simple cleanup.
During countless family dinners, I've found this recipe to be my reliable go-to when I want something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The way the potatoes crisp up while soaking in the chicken juices makes every bite memorable.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Chicken breasts: Choose pieces of similar thickness for even cooking
- Baby potatoes: Pick ones that are roughly the same size
- Fresh garlic: Pre-minced won't give you the same depth of flavor
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated rather than pre-packaged for better melting
Pin it
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Pat chicken completely dry: For better browning
- Cut potatoes into even-sized pieces: Ensures even cooking
- Mince garlic just before cooking: For strongest flavor
- Preheat oven thoroughly: To ensure proper crisping
Seasoning
- Combine garlic, parmesan, and herbs thoroughly: For even flavor distribution
- Season chicken generously on all sides: Enhances taste
- Toss potatoes in olive oil: Before adding seasonings
- Reserve some parmesan for final sprinkling: Adds a finishing touch
Cooking Process
- Arrange everything with space between pieces: Ensures even browning
- Place chicken in center of pan: For even cooking
- Spread potatoes around edges: To crisp up
- Check temperature at 20 minutes: To prevent overcooking
Testing hundreds of combinations, I've found that cutting potatoes to a uniform 1-inch size creates the perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy interior. The chicken releases its flavorful juices while cooking, which the potatoes absorb beautifully.
Perfect Timing
Start checking chicken temperature at 20 minutes. Remove pieces as they reach 165°F to prevent drying. Leave potatoes until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes more if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep vegetables and combine seasonings up to 24 hours ahead. Store prepared ingredients separately in the refrigerator. Bring chicken to room temperature before cooking for even results.
Variations
Switch up the herbs with rosemary and thyme for a French twist, or add oregano and lemon zest for Mediterranean flavors. Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can substitute for some of the potatoes.
Storage Solutions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to maintain crispiness.
Pin it
After making this countless times, I've learned that success lies in those small details - patting the chicken dry, cutting potatoes evenly, and not rushing the cooking process. This recipe proves that simple ingredients, properly prepared, create something truly special. The combination of crispy potatoes and juicy chicken, all infused with garlic and parmesan, makes this a dependable favorite for any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great and stay even more tender.
- → What potatoes work best?
- Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved for even cooking.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
- Use a meat thermometer to check it reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- → Can I prep this ahead?
- Season the chicken and potatoes up to 24 hours ahead and store separately in the fridge.
- → How do I get crispy potatoes?
- Ensure potatoes are in a single layer and flip halfway through cooking.