Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes: Prepare to be amazed by this one-pan wonder that will redefine your weeknight dinners! Imagine succulent, juicy chicken thighs and perfectly roasted potatoes, all bathed in a luscious Parmesan garlic sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of combining chicken, potatoes, garlic, and Parmesan in this specific way are difficult to pinpoint, the individual ingredients boast rich histories. Garlic, for instance, has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt. Potatoes, originally from South America, have become a staple in countless cuisines worldwide. And Parmesan cheese, with its nutty and savory flavor, adds a touch of Italian elegance to any dish.

What makes this Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors, the delightful textures, and the sheer convenience of cooking everything in a single pan. The chicken is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the garlic Parmesan sauce that infuses every bite. The potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, providing the perfect complement to the savory chicken. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! People love this dish because it’s a comforting, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I know you’ll love this Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes as much as I do!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken and Potatoes:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• For the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken and Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken and potatoes cook evenly and get nicely browned.
2. Prepare the chicken and potatoes. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts and Yukon Gold potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are roughly the same size as the chicken for even cooking.
3. Add the seasonings. To the bowl with the chicken and potatoes, add the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Toss everything together. Use your hands or a large spoon to thoroughly toss the chicken and potatoes with the seasonings and olive oil. Ensure that everything is evenly coated. This is crucial for maximum flavor!
5. Arrange on a baking sheet. Spread the chicken and potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the ingredients instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

Cooking the Chicken and Potatoes:

1. Roast in the preheated oven. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender and golden brown. I like to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Stir halfway through. About halfway through the cooking time, remove the baking sheet from the oven and stir the chicken and potatoes. This will help them cook evenly and prevent sticking.

Making the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:

1. Melt the butter. While the chicken and potatoes are roasting, prepare the Parmesan garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the garlic. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
3. Add the chicken broth. Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Thicken the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken.
6. Season the sauce. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
7. Simmer the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Combine the chicken, potatoes, and sauce. Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked and the sauce is ready, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Pour the Parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken and potatoes, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
2. Garnish and serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the baking sheet along with the potatoes. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the potatoes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them altogether. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Cheese Options: While Parmesan cheese is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses as well. A blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese would add a nice depth of flavor. You could also sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over the top during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy, gooey finish.
• Herb Variations: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can use a combination of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme sprigs, can also be added to the baking sheet for extra flavor.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken and potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to roast. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop.
• Serving Suggestions: This Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. Crusty bread is also a great addition for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs will take a little longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 175°F (79°C).
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the Parmesan and garlic.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with this dish. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the sauce and complements the flavors of the chicken and potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe is truly a weeknight dinner champion. It’s quick, it’s easy, and most importantly, it’s absolutely bursting with flavor. The crispy, golden-brown chicken, the tender, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and that irresistible garlic parmesan sauce… honestly, what’s not to love? I know I’ve made this dish countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s the kind of meal that everyone enjoys, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies.

But beyond its deliciousness, this recipe is a must-try because it’s so incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. For example, if you’re watching your carb intake, you could swap out the potatoes for roasted broccoli or cauliflower. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes:

• Classic Comfort: Serve it as is, with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Elevated Elegance: Plate it beautifully with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Family-Style Feast: Arrange everything on a large platter and let everyone help themselves.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic parmesan sauce for a kick.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts alongside the potatoes.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes before serving.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices! Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil would all be delicious additions to this dish. You could also try using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a slightly different flavor and texture.

I truly believe that this Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great option for entertaining guests, as it’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please come back and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about your experience and any variations you might have tried. Share your photos, your tips, and your feedback in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create!

Happy cooking!

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