Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes (One-Pan Dinner)

Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes (One-Pan Dinner)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Posted OnJanuary 22, 2025

A simple, flavorful, and hearty meal, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect choice for a one-pan dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying. With crispy, golden chicken thighs, tender potatoes, and a garlicky parmesan coating, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Cook the entire meal in one pan, minimizing dishes and maximizing flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Balanced and Nutritious: Combines protein-rich chicken with nutrient-packed potatoes for a wholesome meal.
Flavorful and Versatile: The garlic and parmesan add a rich, savory taste, while optional herbs can be tailored to your preferences.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for casual gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Potatoes:

1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season them evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside.

3. Season the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano until well-coated. Spread them out on one side of the prepared baking sheet.

4. Arrange the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the other side of the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap with the potatoes.

5. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Spoon this mixture generously over the chicken thighs and drizzle a little over the potatoes.

6. Bake

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.

7. Broil for Extra Crispiness

For an added golden crust, switch the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

8. Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and potatoes if desired, and serve hot.

Variations

Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, green beans, or brussels sprouts to the pan for a more diverse plate.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the garlic parmesan mixture.
Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Boneless Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; adjust cooking time to prevent dryness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but cooked chicken and potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. What other herbs pair well with this dish?

Thyme, rosemary, or fresh basil complement the garlic and parmesan flavors beautifully.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

4. How do I ensure crispy chicken skin?

Pat the chicken skin dry and avoid covering the pan while cooking. Broil for a few minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

5. What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this meal.

6. Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken cooks faster. Adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

7. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the Parmesan and seasoning labels if you’re sensitive.

8. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Ensure the garlic is mixed with butter and Parmesan; this helps it adhere to the chicken and prevents burning.

9. Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Yes, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

10. Can I use skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, but the skin adds extra flavor and crispiness. Without skin, consider brushing the chicken with a bit more butter for moisture.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a foolproof recipe for a quick yet satisfying dinner. With minimal prep and cleanup, this one-pan wonder delivers maximum flavor and versatility. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Make it part of your regular rotation, and savor every delicious bite!