Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – One-Pan Comfort Meal.

If you love meals that are simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is for you. Tender chicken, roasted potatoes, and a golden, garlicky Parmesan crust come together in one pan, making it easy to prepare, serve, and clean up.

I created this recipe one weeknight when I wanted something comforting but didn’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans. The combination of crispy roasted potatoes, juicy chicken, and that irresistible Parmesan-garlic coating quickly became a family favorite. It’s a dish that’s elegant enough for company but easy enough for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the Parmesan coating sticks. In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the garlic. Toss until evenly coated.

Place the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Chicken

In the same bowl, add the chicken breasts. Drizzle with remaining olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and the rest of the minced garlic. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly.

Place the chicken on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. If desired, dot with small pieces of butter for extra richness.

Step 4: Roast in the Oven

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are tender. Halfway through, use a spoon to baste the chicken with juices from the pan to enhance flavor and keep it moist.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)

For a golden, crispy top, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve directly from the pan for a casual family meal or plate individually for a dinner presentation.

Flavor & Texture Notes

Chicken: Juicy and tender inside with a lightly crisped, cheesy garlic coating.
Potatoes: Soft on the inside and lightly roasted on the edges, absorbing all the flavors from the garlic, Parmesan, and chicken juices.
Garlic Parmesan Crust: The combination of fresh garlic and grated Parmesan forms a golden, savory topping that sticks to the chicken and potatoes.
Herbs and Seasoning: Italian herbs and paprika enhance the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.

The contrast between the tender chicken, creamy yet roasted potatoes, and garlicky, cheesy crust makes every bite satisfying.

Tips & Variations

Chicken Options: Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work beautifully. Adjust the cooking time to 35–40 minutes.
Potato Variations: Sweet potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon golds can be substituted for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Add Veggies: Toss in carrots, green beans, or broccoli halfway through roasting for a complete one-pan meal.
Extra Flavor: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Cheese Variations: Try Pecorino Romano or a Parmesan/Asiago mix for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
Freezer: Cooked chicken and potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and potatoes the night before and keep covered in the fridge. Roast fresh the next day for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
With Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up juices.
Family-Style Meal: Serve directly from the pan with a simple garnish of parsley for a comforting, rustic presentation.
Light Meal Option: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables for a lighter dinner while keeping all the flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure they’re fully thawed before baking. Pat dry to ensure the Parmesan coating adheres properly.

How do I prevent dry chicken?

Patting the chicken dry, using olive oil or butter, and monitoring internal temperature (165°F) ensures moist, tender chicken.

Can I make this in a skillet on the stovetop?

Yes. Sear the chicken and potatoes over medium heat with a lid, stirring occasionally. Finish in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan tends to melt better and provides a richer flavor.

How do I make it spicier?

Add ¼–½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or sprinkle paprika on top before baking.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the perfect weeknight dinner: simple, flavorful, and comforting. With juicy chicken, tender roasted potatoes, and a golden Parmesan-garlic crust, this one-pan meal delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.

It’s versatile enough to adapt with different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables and impressive enough for family gatherings or casual dinner parties. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for busy evenings and special meals alike.

Serve straight from the pan with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and watch how quickly it disappears.