Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

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I have to admit, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe might just be one of the best comfort meals I’ve made in a long time. It’s packed with juicy, tender chicken thighs and crispy golden potatoes, all smothered in a garlicky, cheesy, buttery sauce that makes every bite feel indulgent. The aroma alone, as it roasts in the oven, is enough to have everyone hovering in the kitchen before it even hits the table.

What I love most about this dish is how easily it comes together. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps. With just a few staples from your pantry and fridge, you’ll have a wholesome dinner that looks like you spent hours preparing. It’s incredibly versatile too—I’ve made it with drumsticks, bone-in thighs, and even a mix of both depending on what I have on hand.

The crispy, cheesy layer that forms on top is the real magic. That golden coating of Parmesan and herbs clings to the chicken and potatoes, giving you savory, crunchy bites that pair beautifully with a side of something green like a fresh salad or roasted broccoli. If you’re a fan of one-pan meals that deliver big on flavor with minimal cleanup, this is one you’ll keep coming back to. You might also enjoy dishes like my Creamy Beef and Shells or One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta if you’re looking for more hearty meals.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This dish is the epitome of comfort food. It checks all the boxes: flavorful, filling, easy to prepare, and family-friendly. The combination of roasted garlic, buttery potatoes, and Parmesan-crusted chicken is absolutely irresistible. It’s also a fantastic choice when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, with only one pan to wash, cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs bring incredible flavor and moisture to this recipe, staying juicy as they roast.

Baby Potatoes: These roast up beautifully, becoming tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Any small waxy potato works well here.

Garlic: The star ingredient that infuses the dish with its bold aroma and punchy flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that becomes golden and crisp during baking.

Butter: Melted butter helps coat the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything roasts up golden and flavorful.

Olive Oil: Used to help the seasoning adhere and crisp the exterior.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that pairs beautifully with both garlic and Parmesan.

Salt and Pepper: Essential to bring out all the other flavors in the dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure every piece is coated well for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Halve the baby potatoes and toss them in the same bowl with the remaining butter-garlic mixture. Add extra seasoning if needed. Spread them out around the chicken on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Parmesan

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over both the chicken and potatoes. Don’t be shy—this will bake into a crisp, cheesy crust that is irresistible.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crisp and golden. Potatoes should be tender and browned. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve the chicken and potatoes straight from the oven while hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken thighs, chicken drumsticks or even boneless, skinless breasts can be used—just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the butter mix. Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or use russet chunks if that’s what you have. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for an aromatic twist.

Lactose-sensitive? Replace the Parmesan with a lactose-free hard cheese or nutritional yeast. And if you’re cutting back on butter, use more olive oil or even ghee. This dish is very forgiving and easy to personalize.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is filling on its own, but pairing it with a side of roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad elevates the meal. For something refreshing, a cucumber and tomato salad works well to balance the rich, savory flavors. A glass of chilled white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the garlic and cheese notes beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through—about 15 minutes. For a crispier result, remove the foil in the last few minutes. Alternatively, a quick pan sear can revive the texture nicely. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispiness of the Parmesan crust.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

The total cook time is about 35 to 45 minutes at 400°F. Broiling for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end can help achieve that golden, crispy finish.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and potatoes with all the seasonings a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. Bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to store Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I use frozen chicken for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

You can, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking and crisp skin.

What can I substitute for Parmesan in Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

You can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Just be sure it’s a hard cheese that can crisp up in the oven.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish, you might also fall in love with my Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta. It has that same rich, cheesy appeal but in a creamy pasta form that’s just as easy to whip up. Another cozy dinner option you can’t miss is the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, packed with savory depth and cheesy goodness.

Save and Share for Later

If this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe brought joy to your dinner table, be sure to pin it on your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it again. Sharing is caring—pass it along to your family and friends via email, Facebook, or your go-to group chat. Everyone deserves to have a little garlic-Parmesan magic in their life, and this recipe is too good not to share.

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