If you are craving a comforting dinner that combines rich flavors with effortless preparation, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, tender chicken mingling with crispy, golden baby potatoes, all coated in a luscious blend of garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese that creates a craving-worthy crust. It’s the kind of dish that feels cozy enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress guests, and best of all, it all comes together on one baking sheet for easy cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but chosen to bring layers of flavor, texture, and color to the plate. Each element plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken thighs to the sharpness of freshly grated Parmesan.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts if you prefer leaner meat, cut into large chunks for even cooking.
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered: These small potatoes roast beautifully, creating a crispy outside while staying creamy inside.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This brings everything together and helps achieve that golden, slightly crispy exterior.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the star flavor here, infusing the dish with its irresistible aroma and slight pungency.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfectly balanced herb blend that adds depth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the dish.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that crisps up delightfully in the oven.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances and balances all the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, bright garnish that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of green color.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right to roast the chicken and potatoes until the chicken is juicy yet cooked through, and the potatoes develop a tender inside with a crispy edge.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken and Potatoes
In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks and baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything well, making sure each piece is evenly coated to ensure every bite bursts with flavor. This simple marinade binds all the components and guarantees a flavorful roast.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Spread the mixture out in a single layer on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or a large baking dish. Ensuring the ingredients have enough space prevents steaming and encourages that wonderful roasting effect. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even cooking and browning.
Step 4: Add the Final Parmesan Touch
During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Return to the oven so the cheese melts into a glorious golden crust. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil it for 2 to 3 minutes at the end. Once bubbling and golden, it’s ready to come out.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness that complements the richness of the garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes perfectly.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic and refreshing garnish, but you can also add a lemon wedge on the side to brighten the flavors. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely finishing touch depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlicky steamed green beans to keep the meal balanced and colorful. For heartier options, creamy mashed cauliflower or garlic bread work wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gourmet twist, serve the roasted chicken and potatoes on a bed of buttery polenta or alongside a simple risotto. Alternatively, plate the potatoes and chicken separately with a scattering of fresh herbs and Parmesan shavings to impress family or guests with a restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, so it’s a great dish to pack for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of the potatoes might soften slightly after thawing but the flavors will remain delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy once again. You can also microwave it but the oven method better preserves the texture of the potatoes and the crispiness of the cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat, but keep in mind they might cook a little faster and can dry out if overcooked. Check for doneness early to keep them juicy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a gluten-free dinner option.
Can I substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes?
Definitely! Sweet potatoes offer a sweeter flavor and a softer texture after roasting, which pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic and Parmesan. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
For crispier potatoes, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet so air can circulate properly. You can also broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking for a nicely crisped cheese crust and golden potatoes.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can cut the chicken and potatoes and mix them with the seasoning a few hours in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake. This can help the flavors develop even more.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is simply one of those magical dishes that comes together quickly but delivers big on comfort and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome dinner without fuss, yet it feels special and satisfying. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again when you want a dependable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe offers a deliciously simple sheet pan meal featuring tender chicken thighs or breasts roasted alongside baby potatoes, all coated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it delivers a satisfying combination of savory, cheesy, and herby flavors with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Potatoes
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into large chunks
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting.
- Prepare the chicken and potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken chunks and halved or quartered baby potatoes. Add olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and half (½ cup) of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything thoroughly until the chicken and potatoes are well coated with the seasoning and cheese.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the coated chicken and potatoes out evenly in a single layer on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or large baking dish, ensuring they have enough space to roast properly.
- Bake the dish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook for 35 to 40 minutes. Halfway through baking, stir the mixture gently to promote even cooking and browning.
- Add remaining Parmesan cheese: During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes and return to the oven, allowing the cheese to melt, become golden, and slightly bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked through and golden, remove from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the final 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- This meal pairs excellently with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans.
- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of baby potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
