Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Save this recipe on:

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is one of those weeknight meals I find myself turning to over and over again. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of roasted garlic and bubbling cheese — the sort of smell that has everyone asking “What’s cooking?” before it even hits the table. What I love most is that it all happens in a single skillet, making both prep and cleanup a breeze.

I’ve always had a soft spot for dishes that strike the perfect balance between comfort and flavor, and this one nails it. The chicken is juicy and tender, perfectly seasoned, and seared to golden-brown perfection. The potatoes soak up all the delicious juices in the pan, and the final layer of melty mozzarella and Parmesan brings everything together in one cheesy, garlicky, herb-packed bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a meal that feels both cozy and impressive — with very little effort.

---

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

• One-pan magic: Everything cooks in one skillet — fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Melty cheese topping: Parmesan and mozzarella melt over the chicken and potatoes for gooey, golden perfection.
• Hearty and satisfying: A complete meal that keeps you full and happy.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings.
• Perfect for busy nights: Quick to prep and mostly hands-off once it’s in the pan.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?

I typically go with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. They also sear beautifully in a hot skillet and pair perfectly with the potatoes and cheese. That said, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner option—just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

If you’re cooking for a crowd or want even more flavor, bone-in, skin-on thighs can be used as well. They take a bit longer to cook, but that crispy golden skin and extra flavor are totally worth the wait.

---

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with what’s in your fridge or catering to dietary preferences, here are a few easy swaps that still bring delicious results:

• Cheese: Instead of mozzarella, try provolone, fontina, or even gouda for a smoky twist. Parmesan can be swapped with Pecorino Romano.
• Potatoes: Baby gold potatoes are my favorite, but red potatoes or even sweet potatoes will work beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but in a pinch, garlic powder or roasted garlic paste can add great flavor.
• Herbs: I use fresh parsley for garnish, but feel free to use dried Italian herbs, rosemary, or thyme depending on what you like.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to bulk up the dish or sneak in some greens.

This skillet recipe is super forgiving, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?

I explained the best chicken cuts to use — boneless, skinless thighs (for juiciness), with notes on how breasts or bone-in thighs could also work.

---

Options for Substitutions

Covered flexible ingredient swaps like different cheeses (provolone, fontina), potato varieties (red, sweet), and optional veggies or herb choices.

---

What Type of Chicken Works Best in This Skillet?

For me, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the gold standard for this dish. They cook evenly, stay tender and juicy, and develop a gorgeous sear in the skillet. Their rich flavor stands up beautifully to the garlic and Parmesan combo, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

That said, if you’re more of a chicken breast fan, you can absolutely use those instead. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying them out. Want something with even more flavor? Bone-in, skin-on thighs will give you crispy edges and that irresistible roasted taste—just allow a few extra minutes of cook time.

---

Easy Ingredient Swaps to Try

This dish is super flexible, which is perfect when you’re working with whatever’s in the fridge. Here are some simple swaps that won’t sacrifice flavor:

• No mozzarella? Try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different cheesy finish.
• Out of baby gold potatoes? Red potatoes, fingerlings, or diced Yukon Golds will all work. Even sweet potatoes bring a fun twist.
• Missing fresh garlic? Garlic powder or roasted garlic paste can step in and still deliver that punchy flavor.
• Switch up the herbs with what you have—thyme, oregano, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can add a nice depth.
• Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped spinach if you want more color and texture in your skillet.

This recipe is all about comfort and ease, so don’t stress about sticking to the script. It’ll turn out delicious no matter how you riff on it.

---

Ingredients for This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Each ingredient in this skillet brings its own magic to the pan, building layers of flavor and texture in a way that makes every bite crave-worthy. Here’s why each one matters:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These stay juicy and flavorful, and they sear beautifully, creating that golden crust that’s key to the dish.
• Baby gold potatoes – Their creamy texture and thin skins make them ideal for skillet cooking; they absorb all the garlicky, cheesy goodness.
• Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken and crisping the potatoes; it helps everything brown evenly and adds rich depth.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps the garlic become aromatic without burning. It also gives the sauce a silky finish.
• Fresh garlic cloves – The star of the show. Sautéed garlic brings sharp, bold flavor that ties the dish together.
• Chicken broth – A splash of broth deglazes the pan and helps cook the potatoes while infusing everything with savory flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully over the top, adding that gooey, stringy, cheesy layer we all love.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, nutty kick and creates a golden, cheesy crust when broiled.
• Italian seasoning – A simple blend of herbs that gives the dish its warm, familiar flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning every element just right.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – A sprinkle on top brightens everything and adds a touch of freshness to the final dish.

---

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside — they’ll finish cooking later.

---

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out — those browned bits are flavor gold), add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Toss in the halved baby gold potatoes, cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to get a nice golden crust, then stir and continue cooking until they start to soften, about 10 minutes total.

---

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broth

Push the potatoes to one side and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown bits from the bottom — this creates a flavorful base for the dish.

---

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, placing them on top of or beside the potatoes. Spoon some of the garlicky broth over the top to keep everything moist and flavorful.

---

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan generously over the chicken and potatoes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil on high for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

---

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven carefully (it will be hot!) and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.

---

How Long to Cook the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

From start to finish, this dish takes about 35–40 minutes to cook:

• Searing the chicken: ~8–10 minutes
• Cooking the potatoes: ~10 minutes
• Simmering with broth and garlic: ~3–4 minutes
• Broiling with cheese: ~2–3 minutes
• Resting before serving: ~2 minutes

Most of the cooking happens right in the skillet, and the quick broil at the end is just enough to melt and brown the cheese beautifully.

---

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

• Cut potatoes evenly: To ensure they cook at the same rate, aim for uniform size when halving or quartering them.
• Don’t rush the sear: Let the chicken develop a golden crust before flipping — this adds flavor and texture.
• Use an oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron or stainless steel skillet is ideal for going from stovetop to broiler without any issues.
• Adjust the broth: If your skillet dries out while cooking, don’t hesitate to splash in a bit more chicken broth.
• Broil carefully: Keep a close eye during broiling — cheese can go from golden to burned in seconds.
• Finish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or even basil adds a pop of color and freshness before serving.
• Let it rest: Just a couple minutes of resting time helps everything settle and keeps the chicken juicy.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple skillet meals can go sideways with a few missteps. Here’s what to avoid for the best results:

• Overcrowding the skillet – If the pan is too packed, the chicken and potatoes will steam instead of sear. Work in batches if needed.
• Undercooking potatoes – Make sure they’re fork-tender before broiling. Hard potatoes will ruin the texture balance.
• Skipping the sear – That golden crust on the chicken isn’t just for looks—it adds deep flavor.
• Using too much liquid – A little broth helps deglaze and soften the potatoes, but too much can make the dish soggy.
• Not tasting as you go – Always adjust seasoning before broiling. Once the cheese is on, it’s harder to fix.
• Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks fast and turns bitter if left unattended. Keep it moving in the pan for just 30 seconds.

---

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?

This dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate it to something really special. Here are some tasty ideas:

Green Salad

A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheese and garlic.

Crusty Bread

Something warm and crusty is perfect for soaking up all the garlicky juices in the skillet.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple veggie side that adds color and crunch — plus, it balances out the meal.

Roasted Corn

Sweet roasted corn (especially in summer) pairs beautifully with the salty Parmesan and savory chicken.

A Glass of White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the garlic and cheese flavors without overpowering them.

Garlic Green Beans

Stick with the garlicky theme and serve alongside crisp-tender green beans sautéed with olive oil and garlic.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, buttery mushrooms are a perfect complement to this skillet meal — especially if you’re serving it for guests.

---

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? This skillet meal stores surprisingly well and makes for a delicious next-day lunch or quick dinner. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Freezing: While the chicken and potatoes can be frozen, the cheese may change texture slightly. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

These are general estimates and can vary depending on portion sizes and exact ingredients used:

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 125mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg

This dish is packed with protein, hearty enough for dinner, and balanced with carbs and healthy fats. If you’re looking for lower calories, you can reduce the cheese or swap to low-fat options.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer — chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when pierced.

---

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and potatoes a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge, then reheat and add cheese just before broiling.

---

What kind of skillet should I use?

An oven-safe skillet is key — cast iron is perfect, but stainless steel works too. Avoid nonstick pans if you plan to broil, as most aren’t safe for high heat.

---

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and cheeses are gluten-free, the recipe is naturally free of gluten. Always check labels to be sure.

---

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini all work well. Just add them in with the garlic or during the potato step, depending on how soft you like them.

---

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but allow extra time for cooking. Bone-in thighs take longer, so either start them earlier or finish in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes before broiling.

---

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a similar salty kick, or even aged cheddar for a sharper flavor twist.

---

How do I make this dish a little lighter?

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs, reduce the cheese, and go light on the butter. You’ll still get great flavor with fewer calories and less fat.

---

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is exactly the kind of recipe I turn to when I want something hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor — without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s flexible, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or impressing friends over the weekend, this skillet delivers every time. The one-pan method makes it efficient, while the layers of garlic, herbs, and melty cheese make it unforgettable. Try it once, and I promise it’ll find a regular spot in your meal rotation.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: