This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are cooked together for the perfect meal full of flavor.
The garlic and butter mix makes everything taste great, and who doesn’t love a quick clean-up? I often serve it with a simple salad for a meal that feels special without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I use chicken breast for its lean quality. However, you can swap it for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. They tend to stay juicier!
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. You can also try baby potatoes for a more tender bite, or sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt levels. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, go for vegan butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder. I find that fresh always gives a better punch!
Seasonings: Smoked paprika adds a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. Dried thyme can be replaced with Italian seasoning or even fresh thyme if you have it around.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dry results, but there are ways to keep it juicy! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe and juicy.
Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist when you cut into it!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. Just enough time to whip up a hearty meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potato wedges. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they get golden brown and tender. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Making the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown too much.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to season the chicken. Sprinkle the chicken strips with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color.
4. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked potato wedges to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together gently, making sure the potatoes and chicken are well combined and evenly coated with that delicious garlic butter.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if you like a bit of zing. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Medium Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of potatoes you have on hand, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized wedges to ensure even cooking. Cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type and size of the wedges.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic. Just add it to the skillet with the chicken instead of sautéing it. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe with Skin-On Chicken?
Yes, using skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and keep the chicken moist. Just be aware that you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. Make sure to monitor it closely!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
