This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish is a winner! Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are baked together with buttery garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Yum!
You won’t believe how simple this is to make. Just toss everything on a pan and let the oven do its magic. I love serving it with a side of veggies to feel a bit fancy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give the juiciest results. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them. Also, drumsticks work great too!
Baby Potatoes: These tender potatoes are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, try using Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into small pieces for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh has a better punch. I use extra garlic because I can’t get enough of that flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will always taste better than pre-grated. However, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you’re looking for a stronger flavor. Make sure to sprinkle it generously!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken and Potatoes Cook Perfectly Together?
One key to this recipe is ensuring that the chicken thighs and potatoes cook at the same rate. Here are some tips:
- Start by cutting the potatoes in halves so they cook evenly and quickly.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This promotes a crispier skin.
- Place the chicken on top of the potatoes, allowing the juices to soak down into them as they cook.
- Monitor the cooking time. If the potatoes are still firm when the chicken is done, you can remove the chicken and keep baking the potatoes for a few more minutes.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to cook, plus a few extra minutes if you choose to broil for crispiness. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your chicken and potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, mix the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Toss everything together so the potatoes are nicely coated.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a large baking sheet or ovenproof pan. This will help them cook evenly and get that lovely golden color!
4. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Rub the remaining olive oil over the chicken, then add the rest of the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Now, place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the potatoes. This way, the delicious juices will drip down as they cook.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over both the chicken and the potatoes. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
7. Bake Away:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 35-40 minutes. You know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Crisp Up (Optional):
If you like your chicken skin crispy, you can switch the oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. They typically cook faster, so start checking for doneness around 25-30 minutes to avoid them drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Baby Potatoes?
No problem! You can use regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. If using larger potatoes, make sure they’re cut small enough for quick tender results.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep everything ahead of time. Season the chicken and potatoes, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, just pop everything in the oven as directed. Give it a few extra minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge!
