There’s something magical about the combination of garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken sizzling away in a skillet. Add crispy golden potatoes to the mix, and you have a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly evening when all I had were pantry staples and a craving for something flavorful. It quickly became a go-to favorite, delivering the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, flavorful meal. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet has everything you need for a satisfying dinner in one pan.
First, it’s incredibly quick to make. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those nights when time is of the essence. Plus, it minimizes dishes, so cleanup is a breeze!
The flavors are irresistible. Garlic and parmesan create a rich, savory coating for the chicken and potatoes, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a burst of freshness.
It’s versatile enough to suit everyone at the table. Whether you prefer chicken thighs or breasts, or even want to swap in sweet potatoes, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Finally, it’s a budget-friendly dish. Using everyday ingredients, you can serve a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious skillet meal shine.
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star here. Their natural fat content keeps them juicy and flavorful, even at high heat. If you prefer chicken breasts, they’ll work too—just be mindful of cooking times to avoid drying them out.
Potatoes
Baby Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Their creamy texture and thin skins mean no peeling required! If you don’t have these, red potatoes or even diced russet potatoes can be substituted.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor. Mince it finely to ensure even distribution throughout the dish. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan cheese is what ties everything together, creating a delicious crust when it melds with the garlic and chicken juices. For the best flavor, grate your own parmesan rather than using pre-shredded.
Herbs and Spices
A mix of Italian seasoning, paprika, and fresh parsley enhances the dish with layers of flavor. Paprika adds a subtle smoky depth, while parsley brightens up the final dish.
Special Equipment
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet is your best friend here. Cast iron works particularly well because it holds heat evenly and helps achieve a golden crust on the chicken and potatoes.
How to Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Making this dish is as easy as it gets, but the results are anything but ordinary. Let’s walk through the steps.
Step 1: Prep and Season
Start by cutting your potatoes into quarters for even cooking. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Season your chicken with a mix of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a touch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs in the pan, smooth side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook the other side for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Place the seasoned potatoes cut-side down in a single layer. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they’re golden and tender.
Step 4: Add the Garlic and Parmesan
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the garlic, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle half the parmesan over the potatoes and stir gently to coat.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Nestle the chicken back into the skillet among the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan over everything and cover with a lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal.
Storage Options
Got leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or a next-day lunch.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Tip: Add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to help revive the flavors and keep everything moist.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the Protein: Try using pork chops or even shrimp instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
- Sweet Potatoes: For a twist on the classic, swap out Yukon gold potatoes for sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some green beans, asparagus, or bell peppers during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Love heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the seasoning mix.
- Cheese Variations: While parmesan is classic, pecorino romano or asiago cheese can add a new layer of flavor.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours!
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of bold flavors, golden textures, and simple ingredients will have your family coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal loaded with crispy chicken, tender potatoes, and a flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add potatoes. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden brown.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, mix well, and add chicken back to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference.
- For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top when serving.
- Adjust seasonings as needed based on your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
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