Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

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The smell of roasted garlic and melted Parmesan hits me every time I make this, and I swear it’s impossible to stay patient while it finishes in the oven. Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is one of those recipes I turn to when I want something comforting, easy, and wildly flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy chicken thighs, buttery baby potatoes, and golden cheese come together in a way that makes the whole meal feel like more than the sum of its parts.

I started making this when I needed a quick dinner that felt like a treat. It’s now a household favorite that somehow works for both weeknight dinners and casual weekend gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish rarely leaves leftovers behind.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This dish checks so many boxes: it’s easy, comforting, and full of flavor. You get the juicy, tender chicken with crispy edges, perfectly roasted potatoes that soak up all those garlicky juices, and that irresistible blanket of melted Parmesan on top. It all cooks in one pan, so cleanup is minimal—and the flavor payoff is huge. Whether you’re short on time or just want something fuss-free and delicious, this recipe delivers.

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What Cut of Chicken Works Best for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

I almost always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They cook evenly, stay incredibly juicy, and develop that golden sear that adds extra depth to the dish. Plus, they pair beautifully with the roasted potatoes and rich Parmesan topping.

That said, bone-in, skin-on thighs also work if you want extra crispy skin and don’t mind a longer cook time. Chicken breasts are an option too, though you’ll want to be careful not to overcook them—they dry out faster than thighs.

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Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes are ideal, but red potatoes or even quartered Yukon Golds can step in with great results. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets—they tend to fall apart.
• Cheese: Parmesan is the star, but you can mix in some Mozzarella for gooeyness, or use Asiago or Grana Padano for a sharper flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings the best punch, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch—just adjust the quantity to taste.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a pop of brightness at the end, but dried Italian seasoning or even rosemary or thyme can deepen the flavor while roasting.

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Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and creating that satisfying, golden finish. Here’s what you need—and why it matters:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
  These stay juicy and tender even at high temperatures, and they soak up all the savory seasoning.
• Baby Yellow Potatoes
  They roast up buttery and soft on the inside with perfectly crispy edges, making them the ideal companion to the chicken.
• Fresh Garlic
  Garlic infuses the entire dish with deep, savory aroma and flavor. It’s the backbone of that signature garlic-Parmesan taste.
• Olive Oil
  Helps crisp the chicken and potatoes while distributing the seasonings evenly.
• Salt and Black Pepper
  Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of both the chicken and the potatoes.
• Dried Italian Seasoning
  A blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity. It ties the chicken and potatoes together into a unified flavor profile.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
  The star of the show—melts over the chicken and potatoes to form a cheesy, golden topping that’s both nutty and salty.
• Fresh Parsley
  Chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness at the end, balancing out the richness of the cheese and garlic.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup. Lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick spray.

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Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything to coat evenly so that every piece of chicken is covered in flavor.

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Step 3: Prep the Potatoes

Cut the baby potatoes into halves (or quarters if they’re large). Toss them in a separate bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch more Italian seasoning. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.

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Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spread the potatoes around the edges of the prepared baking sheet, and place the seasoned chicken thighs in the center. Make sure everything is in a single layer to allow proper roasting and browning.

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Step 5: Roast in the Oven

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through and the potatoes are starting to brown on the edges.

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Step 6: Add Parmesan and Finish Roasting

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over both the chicken and potatoes. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly crisped.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is roasted to perfection, remove the pan from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy every garlicky, cheesy bite.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

The entire dish takes about 40 to 45 minutes in the oven, depending on your oven’s heat consistency and the size of your chicken pieces and potatoes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Initial roast: 25–30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), until chicken is nearly cooked through and potatoes begin to brown.
• With Parmesan added: An extra 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

A quick test with a meat thermometer can save you from dry chicken or undercooked centers. The potatoes should be fork-tender and crisp on the edges by the end.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning. It helps the oil and spices stick better and creates a better sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Air circulation is key to roasting rather than steaming. Use two trays if necessary.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded versions don’t melt as well and can clump.
• Add garlic at the right time. Mix it with the oil and seasonings so it infuses without burning.
• Keep potato sizes uniform. Smaller, evenly cut chunks roast evenly and crisp better.
• Let it rest after roasting. A 5-minute rest lets juices settle in the chicken and ensures every bite is moist.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are some common missteps to avoid:

• Using wet chicken or potatoes
  Moisture prevents browning. Always pat your chicken and potatoes dry before seasoning to get that beautiful roasted finish.
• Cutting uneven potato chunks
  If the potato pieces are different sizes, some will burn while others stay undercooked. Keep them uniform for even roasting.
• Skipping the preheat
  Roasting requires a hot oven from the start. If it’s not fully preheated, your food will cook unevenly and steam instead of roast.
• Burning the garlic
  Garlic burns fast and turns bitter. Make sure it’s well-coated in oil and not sitting exposed on top of the chicken or potatoes.
• Using the wrong cheese
  Pre-packaged Parmesan may include anti-caking agents that stop it from melting properly. Freshly grated is always better.
• Not checking doneness
  Use a thermometer to confirm your chicken hits 165°F (74°C) internally. Undercooked chicken can ruin the whole meal.

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What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes?

Simple Green Salad

A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors of the dish.

Roasted Corn on the Cob

Sweet, charred corn complements the garlicky, cheesy notes and adds a nice pop of color to the plate.

Warm Garlic Bread

Yes, more garlic! Perfect for soaking up any cheesy juices left behind.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans

Lightly steamed veggies bring brightness and keep things balanced without overpowering the dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair wonderfully with Parmesan and bring a savory depth to the table.

Creamy Coleslaw

The tangy crunch of coleslaw adds a contrast in texture and a refreshing bite.

Dill Pickle Spears

A zesty, acidic option that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese.

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Storage Instructions

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes stores surprisingly well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to keep the potatoes crispy and the chicken juicy. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, though it may lose a bit of that roasted texture.
• Freezer: You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the potatoes may soften slightly after thawing. Wrap portions in foil or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can marinate the chicken and prep the potatoes a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge, and assemble right before roasting.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Calories: ~470 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g

These values can vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken thighs, the amount of cheese used, and specific ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan from a block is best—it melts better and has a richer flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

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Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking. Frozen chicken won’t cook evenly and may release too much water during roasting.

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Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Not at all. Baby yellow potatoes have thin skins that become beautifully crisp when roasted. Just wash them well and slice as needed.

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How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning mix. It adds a nice kick without overpowering the garlic and cheese.

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Can I cook everything in a skillet instead of the oven?

You can start it in a skillet to sear, but for even roasting and crispy potatoes, finishing in the oven is best. A cast-iron skillet that’s oven-safe works well for a one-pan approach.

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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the texture of the chicken and potatoes. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain crispiness.

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Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your Parmesan and seasoning mixes don’t contain any hidden additives.

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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the garlic and seasonings.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a comfort food staple that’s hard not to love. It’s easy to throw together on a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve guests. With juicy, seasoned chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, and that golden crown of Parmesan, it satisfies cravings while keeping things simple. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or meal prep that won’t bore you by day two, this one hits the mark every time.

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