One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe.

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, perfectly roasted potatoes, and the aromatic blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This one-pan garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe became my go-to weeknight dinner after a particularly hectic Tuesday when I needed something satisfying but simple. What started as a desperate attempt to use up ingredients in my fridge turned into one of my family’s most requested meals.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way the flavors marry together during cooking. The chicken releases its juices, which the potatoes eagerly absorb, while the garlic infuses everything with its warm, savory essence. Meanwhile, the Parmesan creates a golden, slightly crispy coating that brings texture and depth to every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, requiring minimal prep but delivering maximum flavor.

This recipe works beautifully for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss of multiple pans and complicated techniques. The entire dish cooks together, making cleanup a breeze while ensuring every component is perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Potatoes:

2 pounds baby potatoes, halved (or regular potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Finishing:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving the golden, crispy exterior on both the chicken and potatoes while ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing the chicken from steaming in the pan. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare the potatoes.

In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure every potato piece is well-coated with the mixture. The cheese will create a lovely crust as it bakes, while the herbs add freshness and complexity.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan, skin-side down if using skin-on thighs. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the bottom develops a golden-brown crust.

Flip the chicken thighs and sear for another 3-4 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside temporarily.

Add the seasoned potatoes to the same skillet, arranging them in a single layer. The residual chicken drippings will add incredible flavor to the potatoes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to develop some color.

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet among the potatoes. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden.

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, prepare the finishing touches. In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the remaining minced garlic over low heat. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.

Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately drizzle the garlic butter over the chicken and potatoes. Sprinkle with the additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. The residual heat will melt the cheese slightly and create an irresistible aroma.

Flavor & Texture Notes

This garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes dish delivers layers of flavor that develop beautifully during the cooking process. The chicken emerges incredibly tender and juicy, with a perfectly seasoned exterior that’s neither too dry nor overly moist. The initial searing creates a lovely caramelized surface that locks in the juices while adding depth to the overall flavor profile.

The potatoes become the star supporting player, absorbing the chicken drippings and developing a golden, slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy, creamy interior. The Parmesan cheese creates pockets of nutty, salty richness that complement the earthy potatoes perfectly. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast between the tender chicken and the textured potatoes.

The garlic presence is prominent but not overwhelming, providing a warm, aromatic backdrop that ties all the elements together. The fresh herbs brighten the dish and prevent it from feeling too heavy, while the final drizzle of garlic butter adds a luxurious finishing touch that elevates the entire meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispy potatoes, try parboiling them for 5-7 minutes before seasoning and adding to the skillet. This pre-cooking step creates a slightly rougher surface that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Chicken breast can be substituted for thighs, but reduce the cooking time to prevent drying out. Thighs are preferred for their superior flavor and moisture retention, but breasts work if that’s your preference.

Create a dairy-free version by omitting the Parmesan cheese and substituting nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor. Use olive oil instead of butter for the finishing touch.

Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes during the last 15 minutes of cooking for additional nutrition and color. Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips can be added with the potatoes if cut to similar sizes.

For a Mediterranean twist, add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh rosemary. A Cajun variation works well with paprika, cayenne, and thyme replacing the Italian herbs.

Experiment with different cheese varieties like Romano, Asiago, or even sharp cheddar for unique flavor profiles. Each brings its own character to the dish while maintaining the essential cheesy element.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Store leftover garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after a day as they have time to meld together.

For reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore the crispy texture of the potatoes. Microwave reheating works but may result in softer potatoes. Add a splash of chicken broth if the dish seems dry during reheating.

The dish can be partially prepared ahead of time by seasoning the chicken and preparing the potato mixture up to 4 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before cooking.

Freezing is possible for up to 3 months, though the potato texture may change slightly upon thawing. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty one-pan meal works beautifully as a complete dinner on its own, but several accompaniments can enhance the experience. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds freshness to the plate.

Steamed or roasted green vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts provide color contrast and nutritional balance. The vegetables can even be added to the same pan during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Crusty bread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining garlic butter and pan juices. Consider a warm focaccia or herb-crusted French bread for an Italian-inspired meal.

For wine pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic and herbs beautifully. Red wine lovers might enjoy a light Pinot Noir or Chianti that won’t overpower the dish’s flavors.

The recipe scales easily for entertaining, making it ideal for casual dinner parties or family gatherings. Simply use multiple pans or a large roasting pan to accommodate larger quantities.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces? Absolutely! Bone-in thighs or drumsticks work wonderfully but will require additional cooking time. Increase the oven time to 35-40 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part of the meat.

What if my potatoes aren’t getting crispy enough? Try increasing the oven temperature to 450°F for the last 10 minutes of cooking, or move the pan to the top rack. Make sure the potatoes aren’t overcrowded, as this creates steam and prevents crisping.

Can I make this dish without an oven-safe skillet? Yes, sear the chicken in any skillet, then transfer everything to a roasting pan or baking dish for the oven portion. You might lose some of the concentrated flavors from the chicken drippings, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the meat should feel firm but not tough when pressed gently.

What’s the best type of potato for this recipe? Baby potatoes or small red potatoes work best because they hold their shape well and develop a great texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also excellent. Avoid russet potatoes as they tend to break down too much during cooking.

This garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe proves that some of the best meals come from simple ingredients treated with care and attention. The combination of perfectly seasoned protein, golden potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a satisfying meal that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight family dinner or hosting casual friends, this one-pan wonder delivers consistent results with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight, and I’m confident it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.