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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes is one of those crave-worthy dinners that brings everyone to the table with minimal fuss You get golden chicken juicy potatoes and a creamy burst of garlic and parmesan in one pan I reach for this cozy skillet on weeknights when I want comfort without extra dishes
I first threw this together on a Friday night after a long week and my husband could not stop raving It has become our simple go to for guests and busy evenings alike
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Brings juicy lean protein to the dish Opt for thighs for more flavor and tenderness
- Baby potatoes: These roast up tender and soak in all the creamy sauce Choose firm unblemished potatoes for best results
- Olive oil: Coats ingredients for a golden sear Use extra virgin for better aroma
- Fresh garlic: You want plump cloves for strong flavor Freshly minced is key Never use the jarred stuff if you can avoid it
- Chicken broth: Builds savory depth in the sauce Go for low sodium so you can control the salt
- Heavy cream: Gives the dish its signature creamy texture Look for fresh cream with no off smells
- Parmesan cheese: Has a rich salty bite Grate it fresh for the best melt and flavor
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the meal with aromatic herbs Choose a blend that includes thyme basil and oregano
- Paprika: Adds color and a subtle warmth Use fresh paprika to avoid bitterness
- Salt and pepper: Rounds out the overall flavors Taste as you go for the perfect balance
- Fresh parsley: This bright herb finishes the dish with a burst of color and freshness Pick leafy vibrant bunches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Cut chicken into even chunks and combine with salt pepper and paprika Coat well so each piece gets seasoned
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium high Add the chicken in a single layer Leave space to get a golden sear Cook around four to five minutes per side until just cooked Remove pieces with a slotted spoon so they stay juicy
- Sauté Potatoes and Garlic:
- In the same skillet add baby potatoes and minced garlic Sauté about two to three minutes so the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt Stir to coat potatoes evenly in the leftover oil
- Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth then cover the skillet Reduce heat to medium Simmer for ten to twelve minutes until potatoes are fork tender Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Uncover and stir in heavy cream grated parmesan and Italian seasoning Let everything bubble gently for about three to four minutes The sauce will thicken and become glossy
- Finish with Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken and any juices to the skillet Toss gently so chicken is coated with sauce Simmer five more minutes so flavors meld Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter chopped parsley over the top Serve warm in big scoops with plenty of sauce
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I have a soft spot for fresh parmesan in this recipe Growing up I would help my dad grate it at the table and the smell always meant something delicious was about to happen This dish reminds me of those early kitchen memories
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days The flavors actually deepen overnight For best results reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream so the sauce stays silky
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs with chicken breast if you prefer lighter meat For a dairy free twist try coconut cream and nutritional yeast You could even use sweet potatoes instead of baby potatoes for a different flavor
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious with a crisp green salad to balance the richness or try steamed broccoli for extra fiber Sometimes I serve it spooned over buttered noodles to soak up every bit of sauce
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Cultural and Historical Context
Garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes draws inspiration from classic Italian comfort food blending bold flavors in one pan The combination of garlic cream and parmesan echoes many beloved family style dishes from the Mediterranean but with a quick modern twist
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, both boneless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking breast meat.
- → How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
Place the skillet under a broiler for 2–3 minutes after simmering to add a golden, crisp finish to the potatoes.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Greek yogurt makes a lighter alternative to heavy cream and still provides a creamy texture to the sauce.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach or mushrooms are great additions and can be added during the final simmer for extra nutrition.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative to keep the dish creamy without using dairy products.