Easy Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and effortlessly delicious, this Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe is the answer. Imagine juicy, tender chicken cooked alongside perfectly crispy golden potatoes, all bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that brings every bite to life. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this one-pan wonder will quickly become your go-to dish for simplicity and flavor combined!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• Perfectly balanced flavors: The garlic butter sauce complements tender chicken and crispy potatoes beautifully.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-friendly: Simple ingredients and a familiar taste that everyone enjoys.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with herbs, veggies, or spices to suit your mood.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes dish shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the chicken delivers juicy protein, the potatoes bring crunch and heartiness, while garlic and butter create a luscious sauce that ties it all together.

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in for extra flavor or boneless for quicker cooking.
• Baby potatoes: Small potatoes roast quicker and become irresistibly crispy.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch.
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
• Olive oil: Enhances crispiness on the potatoes and helps sear the chicken.
• Fresh herbs: Thyme or rosemary add earthy notes and vibrant color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

One of the best things about this Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe is how effortlessly you can tailor it to your preferences or pantry staples. Here are some fun ways to mix up the flavors or accommodate dietary needs.

• Swap the potatoes: Use sweet potatoes or baby carrots for a sweeter and earthy twist.
• Add greens: Toss in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for heat.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
• Protein alternatives: Use chicken breasts or even turkey thighs instead.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by washing and halving the baby potatoes so they cook evenly and get that irresistible crispy edge. Mince the garlic finely to ensure the flavor distributes beautifully throughout the dish. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels – this helps the skin crisp up perfectly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. This step locks in flavor and sets the stage for a juicy finish.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Move the chicken to the side and add potatoes to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the potatoes begin to brown and take on flavor from the chicken drippings.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir gently, coating the chicken and potatoes in the melted butter and garlic. Add fresh herbs, salt, and pepper, and let everything cook together until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Baste the chicken occasionally for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender with a golden crust, remove from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow all the juices to redistribute.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

• Room temperature chicken: Let chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give potatoes space to crisp up without steaming.
• Use fresh garlic: It makes a huge difference in flavor over pre-minced or powder forms.
• Baste regularly: Spoon the butter sauce over chicken while cooking for moist, flavorful meat.
• Optional oven finish: For extra crispness, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves adds a vibrant color contrast and fresh herbal notes that brighten this rich dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is a full meal on its own, serving it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables balances the richness and introduces a refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken and potatoes over a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower or quinoa for an elevated presentation, or plate it family-style with rustic bread to soak up all the garlicky butter goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option for busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the chicken moist and potatoes crispy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small splash of water or butter if needed. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but cook faster; watch closely to avoid drying them out.

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Baby or new potatoes are ideal because they cook quickly and develop a lovely crisp exterior.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but if needed, garlic powder can be used sparingly as a substitute.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter for a similar rich taste.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together for a meal that feels truly special. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish promises golden crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and a sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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