Description of this recipe: This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan wonder that delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Tender chicken thighs and perfectly cooked potatoes are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and impressive. It’s a weeknight dinner dream and elegant enough for a casual weekend gathering.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore this recipe because of its simplicity, versatility, and incredible flavor. It requires minimal effort and just one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The garlic butter sauce is utterly irresistible, infusing both the chicken and potatoes with a rich, savory flavor. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can swap out the chicken thighs for breasts, add vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or adjust the seasonings to your liking. This skillet dinner is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Introduction
In the realm of home cooking, there’s a certain magic that happens when simplicity meets exceptional flavor. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a testament to that magic. It’s a recipe designed for busy lives, delivering a complete and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste or quality. Imagine succulent chicken thighs, beautifully browned and infused with garlic butter, nestled amongst tender, golden potatoes, all cooked in a single skillet. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, promising a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its convenience. One-pan dinners are a lifesaver for anyone who appreciates good food but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen or face a mountain of dishes afterward. The Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect solution for those weeknights when you’re short on time but still crave a home-cooked meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
This recipe is also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own signature version. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, incorporate some fresh rosemary for an earthy aroma, or throw in some sliced bell peppers for added color and sweetness. The possibilities are endless! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Opt for thighs over breasts for their superior flavor and moisture content. They stay tender and juicy even when cooked at high heat, making them perfect for this skillet dinner.
- 1 lb baby potatoes, quartered: Baby potatoes are ideal because they cook quickly and evenly. Quartering them ensures that they become tender and golden brown without taking too long. You can use red or yellow potatoes, depending on your preference.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter is the star of the garlic butter sauce, providing richness and depth of flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor that permeates the entire dish. Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking – some people prefer a more intense garlic flavor, while others prefer a more subtle touch.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a touch of complexity and warmth to the chicken and potatoes. You can use a store-bought blend or create your own using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. Be generous with the salt and pepper, but always taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil helps to brown the chicken and potatoes and prevents them from sticking to the skillet. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. It’s the perfect finishing touch to elevate the presentation.
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Ensure that each thigh is evenly coated for maximum flavor penetration. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what will transform the chicken from bland to delicious. Allow the chicken to sit for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if you have the time, to allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of savory and aromatic notes.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate both the potatoes and the chicken without overcrowding. The olive oil will prevent the butter from burning and add a subtle fruity flavor. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the quartered baby potatoes. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should register 165°F (74°C). Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside in a separate bowl.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. The garlic should be lightly golden and release a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen. This is the base of the garlic butter sauce, and it’s important to get it right.
Step 5: Return the potatoes and chicken to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to combine the flavors and ensure that everything is coated in the delicious sauce. Allow the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious blend of savory, garlicky goodness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
COOKING Rating:
Easy – This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks or those looking for a quick and easy meal. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair it with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing side.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a more balanced meal.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a tangy and creamy element.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a cast iron skillet for even cooking and a beautiful sear on the chicken and potatoes.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the ingredients from browning properly.
- If you prefer chicken breasts, be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 400-600mg
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a memorable dining experience with minimal effort. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a dish that can be tailored to your specific tastes and preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this skillet dinner is sure to impress with its incredible flavor and simplicity. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and prepare to enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. This recipe is a testament to the fact that great food doesn’t have to be complicated – sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. Enjoy!
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A1: Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their higher fat content and juicier texture, you can definitely use chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily, so be sure to monitor their internal temperature carefully and avoid overcooking them. You may also want to consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Consider brining the chicken breasts beforehand to keep the meat more juicy.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to this skillet dinner?
A2: Of course! One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily add other vegetables to the skillet, such as sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli florets, or green beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may take longer to cook than others. Add vegetables that take longer to cook with the potatoes and add the faster-cooking ones when the potatoes and chicken are already cooking. This will keep all the components of the recipe cooked well.
Q3: What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
A3: Baby potatoes, either red or yellow, are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. However, you can also use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or russet potatoes. If using larger potatoes, be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook through in the same amount of time as the chicken. Also, leaving the skin on gives it more flavour and texture, and more nutrients.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A4: While this dish is best served fresh, you can definitely prepare some of the components ahead of time. For example, you can season the chicken thighs and chop the potatoes in advance. You can also make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the remaining steps in the recipe. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The components of the recipe will also freeze well, but the texture might change a bit when thawing.
Q5: What can I serve with this skillet dinner to make it a complete meal?
A5: This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is already a pretty complete meal on its own, but you can certainly add some sides to round it out. A simple green salad is a great option for a light and refreshing side. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are also a good choice for a more balanced meal. You can never go wrong with a simple salad to add a healthy dose of vegetables to your meal.
