This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes dish is a winner! Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are coated in tasty garlic and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a smell that draws everyone to the kitchen.
Honestly, the best part is how quick it is to whip up. I love throwing everything in the pan and letting the oven do the magic while I relax. It’s a simple meal, perfect for any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but remember to adjust the cooking time since they cook faster.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are perfect for this dish due to their size and texture. You could use regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces, or even try sweet potatoes for a twist!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds rich flavor, but if you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter can be good alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates a lovely aroma. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh is always best if you can manage it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for a cheesy crust. Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
Crispy chicken skin is a must for this recipe! Here are some tips to achieve that golden crunch:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps it crisp up.
- After coating the chicken with the garlic Parmesan mixture, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the crust to set.
- Place the chicken skin-side up in the baking dish so the hot air in the oven can circulate around it.
- Don’t skip the broiling step at the end! This is where you achieve that extra crispiness. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Potatoes:
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved
For the Coating:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 40 minutes for cooking, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 50 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner without extra fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to make the chicken crispy and cook the potatoes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved baby potatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, a pinch of salt and pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Arrange the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a large baking dish or a sheet pan. This gives them enough space to roast nicely.
4. Coat the Chicken:
In the same bowl, add the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, the rest of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well. Now, pat dry the chicken thighs using paper towels and coat each piece in the tasty garlic Parmesan mixture until it’s thoroughly covered.
5. Assemble Everything:
Place the coated chicken thighs on top of the potatoes in the baking dish, with the skin side facing up. This will help the skin get nice and crispy as it cooks.
6. Bake:
Bake everything in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. You’ll want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the potatoes should be tender and golden brown.
7. Broil for Crispiness:
If you like extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color before serving.
Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious, homemade Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Yes, you can! While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide great flavor and moisture, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just remember they might require a shorter cooking time, so check for doneness earlier!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This will help maintain their flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prep the chicken and potatoes up to a day in advance. After coating them, cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This can enhance the flavors as they marinate in the seasonings.
What Should I Serve Alongside This Dish?
This recipe is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up any extra sauce!
