This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a cozy one-pan dish bursting with flavor. Juicy chicken cooked with buttery garlic and tender potatoes make it a winner at the dinner table!
You know it’s a good day when you smell garlic sizzling in the kitchen. I love how simple it is to make, and clean-up is a breeze! Pair it with a salad for the perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe shines with tender chicken breast. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier piece. Leftover rotisserie chicken works too if you’re in a hurry!
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their fluffy texture. If you want to swap them out, sweet potatoes or even carrots can be a great alternative!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich base. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter will work well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If it’s not on hand, garlic powder can substitute, but use less—about 1 teaspoon for every clove.
Herbs: I love using fresh herbs, but dried thyme and oregano are perfect here. If you have Italian seasoning, it’s a convenient substitute!
How Can I Properly Cook the Potatoes for Maximum Flavor?
Cooking the potatoes to golden perfection is crucial for this recipe. Start with the right size—cut the wedges evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Here are some tips:
- Preheat the skillet properly before adding potatoes for that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give them space to brown, or they’ll steam instead!
- Stir gently but frequently. This helps them brown evenly while still cooking through.
If they’re not cooked through after 10-15 minutes, simply lower the heat and cover with a lid for a few more minutes to finish cooking.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 to 35 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the potatoes, then another 15-20 minutes for the chicken and final touches. Perfect for a quick, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the potato wedges. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should become golden brown and tender. When done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and let it melt. When melted, toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. You want the chicken to be juicy and tender!
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the chicken. Gently toss everything together to coat the chicken and potatoes in the delicious garlic butter. This step brings all the flavors together!
5. Add Lemon and Garnish:
If you like a bit of brightness in your dish, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and potatoes before serving. It adds a lovely touch! Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
It’s time to dig in! Serve your garlic butter chicken and potatoes hot, and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with family and friends.
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are a great substitute and will add a different flavor and sweetness to the dish. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes may cook faster, so start checking for doneness around 8-10 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use garlic powder as a substitute. Start with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, adding more if you like a stronger garlic flavor. Just sprinkle it in when you’re cooking the chicken instead of sautéing it with butter.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for more nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to the potatoes, and add them to the skillet after the potatoes have started to brown, so they cook through nicely.
