Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Weeknights in our home are often a whirlwind. Between school pickups, after-school activities, and the general hustle of family life, finding time to cook a wholesome and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. That’s why one-pan recipes have become my absolute best friend – and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish is a true champion in our rotation. From the moment the tantalizing aroma of garlic and Parmesan starts wafting through the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. My family? They absolutely devour it! Even my pickiest eater, who usually scrutinizes anything green, happily polishes off his plate of golden potatoes and juicy chicken. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a culinary rockstar without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a fuss-free, family-friendly dinner that delivers big on taste and satisfaction, look no further. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is about to become your new weeknight hero, guaranteed to bring smiles to your table and leave everyone feeling happy and well-fed. Get ready to experience dinner bliss, simplified!

Ingredients

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe starts with a humble list of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that is both satisfying and incredibly delicious. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why they are essential to the success of this one-pan wonder.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Chicken breasts are a lean and versatile protein source, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Their mild flavor acts as a blank canvas, readily absorbing the delicious garlic Parmesan seasoning. Alternatively, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful and slightly more forgiving result. Thighs tend to stay moister during baking due to their higher fat content. For this recipe, aim for chicken breasts that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them (slicing them horizontally through the middle) to reduce the thickness and promote even cooking in the oven. This will prevent the outside from drying out before the inside is fully cooked. Using high-quality chicken, whether breasts or thighs, will significantly impact the overall taste and texture of the dish. Look for chicken that is plump and has a healthy pink color.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. This aromatic mix provides a classic Mediterranean flavor profile that beautifully complements the garlic and Parmesan. It adds depth and complexity to the chicken seasoning, elevating it beyond simple salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the amount of Italian seasoning to your preference. If you prefer a more pronounced herbal flavor, you can slightly increase the quantity. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can create your own blend by combining equal parts of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika is a game-changer in this recipe. It brings a subtle smoky depth and warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile without being overpowering. It adds a layer of complexity that regular paprika simply can’t replicate. The smoky notes pair wonderfully with the savory garlic and Parmesan, creating a more nuanced and sophisticated taste. If you only have regular paprika available, you can use that as a substitute, but you’ll miss out on the distinctive smoky flavor. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, you can experiment with using a pinch of hot smoked paprika for a gentle kick.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. It’s crucial for bringing out the natural taste of the chicken and potatoes and balancing the richness of the Parmesan and garlic. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor and even distribution. Adjust the amount of salt to your personal preference, keeping in mind that Parmesan cheese is also naturally salty.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. It complements the other seasonings and enhances the overall savory flavor of the dish. Freshly ground pepper is preferred over pre-ground pepper as it has a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil is used to help the seasonings adhere to the chicken and to promote browning during roasting. It also adds a subtle richness and healthy fats to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits. You can substitute with other cooking oils like avocado oil or canola oil if needed, but olive oil provides a distinct flavor that pairs well with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

For the Potatoes:

• 1.5 pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved: Baby Yukon Gold potatoes are my top choice for this recipe due to their creamy texture and slightly sweet, buttery flavor. They hold their shape well during roasting and become beautifully tender on the inside with crispy edges. Red potatoes are another excellent option, offering a slightly waxier texture that also roasts beautifully. The key is to use “baby” potatoes as they cook quickly and evenly. Halving them ensures they cook through in the same amount of time as the chicken and allows them to crisp up nicely. If you use larger potatoes, you’ll need to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook properly. Avoid using russet potatoes as they tend to become too dry and mealy when roasted in this manner.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is essential for coating the potatoes and promoting crisping during roasting. It also helps the garlic and Parmesan cheese adhere to the potatoes, infusing them with flavor. The generous amount of olive oil ensures that the potatoes become golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. Again, extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a star ingredient in this recipe, providing a pungent and aromatic base flavor that permeates both the chicken and potatoes. Minced garlic releases its flavor best when cooked, and it infuses the olive oil, creating a flavorful coating for the potatoes. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best flavor. Don’t be tempted to use pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it often lacks the same intensity and freshness. If you are a big garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for an even bolder garlic flavor.
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is the other key flavor component in this recipe. It adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor that is simply irresistible. Grated Parmesan melts beautifully during roasting, creating a cheesy crust on the potatoes and chicken. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and flavor. For a more intense Parmesan flavor, you can use a higher quality Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the potatoes and enhancing their natural flavor. It also helps balance the richness of the Parmesan cheese and garlic. Adjust the amount of salt to your personal preference, keeping in mind that Parmesan cheese is already salty.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the potatoes, complementing the garlic and Parmesan flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.

Optional Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. It brightens up the flavors and provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the garlic and Parmesan. Chopped parsley is best added as a garnish just before serving to maintain its fresh flavor and vibrant green color. You can substitute with other fresh herbs like chives or basil if preferred, but parsley is a classic and versatile choice.

Instructions

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights. The one-pan method minimizes cleanup and ensures that all the delicious flavors meld together beautifully during roasting. Let’s walk through each step in detail to ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating the oven to the correct temperature is crucial for even cooking and proper browning. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the baking sheet inside. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperature readings.
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the potatoes from sticking. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray. Using a large baking sheet is important to ensure that the chicken and potatoes are arranged in a single layer, which promotes even cooking and crisping. If your baking sheet is too small, you may need to use two baking sheets or cook in batches.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Patting the chicken dry is a crucial step for achieving crispy, golden-brown chicken. Removing excess moisture allows the seasonings to adhere better and promotes browning during roasting.
• In a small bowl, mix Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Combine all the dry spices in a small bowl to create a flavorful seasoning blend. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed over the chicken.
• Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat evenly with the seasoning mixture. Rubbing the chicken with olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and adds moisture. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated on all sides with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor in every bite. Use your hands to massage the seasoning into the chicken for even coverage.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

• In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This step infuses the potatoes with flavor and ensures they roast to crispy perfection. Use a large bowl to provide ample space for tossing and coating the potatoes evenly. Make sure every potato piece is well coated with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings. The Parmesan cheese will melt during roasting and create a delicious cheesy crust on the potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble on the Pan

• Place the seasoned chicken on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on one side of the baking sheet. Leaving space between the chicken pieces allows for better air circulation and even cooking.
• Spread the potatoes evenly on the other side, ensuring they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the other side of the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy potatoes. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure everything is in a single layer.

Step 5: Bake

• Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) allows the chicken to cook through while the potatoes become tender and crispy. Flipping the potatoes halfway through ensures even browning and crisping on all sides. Set a timer for 15 minutes and then flip the potatoes using a spatula or tongs.
• Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Using a meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone if using bone-in chicken. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is not yet cooked through, continue roasting for a few more minutes and check the temperature again.

Step 6: Optional Finishing Touch

• In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle extra Parmesan over the chicken and potatoes and broil for a golden crust. This optional step adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness and creates a beautiful golden crust on the chicken and potatoes. Turn the oven to broil (high setting) and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Broiling times can vary depending on your oven.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve hot and enjoy! Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes immediately while it’s hot and crispy. This dish is delicious on its own or served with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe provides a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, with moderate calories per serving. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Servings: 4 Servings
• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving (Please note that calorie counts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Using leaner chicken or reducing the amount of olive oil and Parmesan cheese can lower the calorie count.)

Nutritional Highlights:

• Protein-Rich: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as satiety.
• Source of Carbohydrates: Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. They also offer dietary fiber, especially if you leave the skin on.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein.

Tips for a Healthier Version:

• Use Chicken Thighs (Skinless and Boneless): While breasts are leaner, skinless and boneless thighs are still a good source of protein and can be more flavorful and moist.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more vegetables to the pan, such as broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or bell pepper chunks, to boost the nutritional value and fiber content of the meal.
• Control Olive Oil: While olive oil is healthy, it is also calorie-dense. Use the recommended amount for flavor and crispness, but avoid adding excessive amounts.
• Reduce Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is high in sodium and calories. Use the recommended amount for flavor, but avoid overdoing it. You can also use a lower-fat Parmesan cheese option.
• Serve with a Salad: Pair this dish with a large green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add more fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, with a total preparation time of just 45 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • This includes washing and halving the potatoes, mincing the garlic, preparing the chicken seasoning, and coating the chicken and potatoes with the seasonings and olive oil. Efficient knife skills and organized mise en place (having all ingredients prepped and ready) can help you minimize prep time.
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • This is the time the chicken and potatoes spend roasting in the oven. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your chicken breasts and potatoes. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
• Total Time: 45 minutes
  • From start to finish, this delicious and satisfying meal is ready in under 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Pre-chop Vegetables: If you are very short on time, you can pre-chop the potatoes and garlic earlier in the day or even the night before and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Use Pre-minced Garlic (Sparingly): While freshly minced garlic is preferred, in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save a few minutes. However, be aware that the flavor may not be as intense.
• Utilize Kitchen Tools: Using a food processor with a slicing attachment can quickly halve the potatoes. A garlic press can also speed up the mincing process.
• Read the Recipe Through: Before you start cooking, read through the entire recipe to understand all the steps and ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute surprises.

How to Serve

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be enhanced with complementary side dishes and serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Simple Side Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a classic pairing for roasted chicken and potatoes. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the dish and provides a healthy dose of greens.
• Roasted Vegetables: Extend the one-pan concept by adding other vegetables to roast alongside the chicken and potatoes. Broccoli florets, asparagus spears, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini all roast beautifully and complement the flavors of the dish. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the baking sheet.
• Steamed Green Beans: Steamed green beans are a quick and easy side dish that adds a touch of freshness and green to the plate. Toss them with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple and healthy side.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: For a more indulgent meal, serve with warm garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic Parmesan sauce from the pan.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
• Aioli or Ranch Dressing: For dipping, serve with a side of creamy aioli or ranch dressing. These dipping sauces complement the savory flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the garlic Parmesan flavors of this dish. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir could also work.
• Leftovers: This dish is excellent as leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day or another quick and easy dinner.

Additional Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Perfection

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes turns out perfectly every time, here are five essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is arguably the most crucial tip for achieving crispy potatoes and evenly cooked chicken. Overcrowding the baking sheet traps steam, preventing the potatoes from browning and crisping properly. Instead, they will steam and become soggy. Ensure that both the chicken and potatoes are arranged in a single layer with some space between each piece. If you have a lot of ingredients, use two baking sheets or cook in batches. This allows for proper air circulation and even roasting.
2. Pat the Chicken and Potatoes Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness when roasting. Before seasoning, thoroughly pat the chicken breasts and halved potatoes dry with paper towels. Removing excess surface moisture allows the olive oil and seasonings to adhere better and promotes browning and crisping in the oven. This simple step makes a significant difference in the final texture of both the chicken and potatoes.
3. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: While pre-shredded Parmesan cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is far superior in terms of flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and create a less desirable texture. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and provides a richer, more authentic Parmesan flavor. For the best results, grate your Parmesan cheese just before using it.
4. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic: Garlic is a key flavor component in this recipe, and it’s what gives the dish its signature aromatic and savory taste. Use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely for the best flavor release. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the garlic – the recipe calls for 4 cloves, but you can easily add more if you are a garlic lover. Fresh garlic provides a much more pungent and flavorful punch than pre-minced garlic from a jar.
5. Check Chicken Internal Temperature: Safety first! Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone if using bone-in chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, while undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat. Checking the internal temperature is the only reliable way to ensure that your chicken is both safely cooked and perfectly juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions and answers related to making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes:

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Bone-in chicken often has more flavor and tends to stay moister during roasting. However, bone-in chicken may take slightly longer to cook than boneless chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Skin-on chicken will also crisp up nicely in the oven, adding extra flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I substitute the potatoes with other vegetables?

A: Yes, you can easily substitute or add other vegetables to this one-pan dish. Good alternatives to potatoes include sweet potatoes, carrots, broccoli florets, asparagus spears, bell peppers, zucchini, and Brussels sprouts. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots may take a bit longer to cook than potatoes, so you might need to adjust the cooking time or cut them into smaller pieces. Softer vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers should be added later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Q3: I don’t have Italian seasoning. What can I use instead?

A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create your own blend. Combine equal parts of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. You can also add a pinch of dried marjoram if you have it. Alternatively, you can use a combination of just oregano and basil, which are the most prominent flavors in Italian seasoning. Adjust the amounts to your preference.

Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: While this dish is best served fresh and hot, you can do some prep work ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. You can chop the potatoes and mince the garlic earlier in the day and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the chicken seasoning blend in advance. However, it’s best to assemble and roast the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you need to fully cook it ahead of time, the dish can be reheated, but the potatoes may lose some of their crispness upon reheating.

Q5: How do I store leftovers and reheat them?

A: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to crisp up the potatoes again. You can also reheat in the microwave for a quicker option, but the potatoes may not be as crispy. When reheating in the microwave, cover the dish loosely with a paper towel to prevent splattering.

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