Looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner that doesn’t require a ton of prep or dishes? Look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe! This delicious one-pan meal brings together juicy chicken thighs, crispy golden potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce to create a flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion. Read on for the full recipe and cooking instructions to create a meal that’s both easy and impressive.
What Is "Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet"?
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines juicy, seasoned chicken thighs and crispy, buttery potatoes, all cooked in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. It’s a balanced dish that offers protein, starch, and flavor all in one skillet. The best part? It's simple to make with basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The chicken is seared until golden, the potatoes are cooked until tender and crispy, and everything is tossed in a buttery, garlicky sauce that ties the whole dish together.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
To make this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs (4-6 bone-in, skin-on) – For juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy skin.
- Baby Potatoes (1 lb) – Halved or quartered, depending on their size.
- Garlic (4-6 cloves, minced) – Provides a rich, aromatic base for the sauce.
- Butter (4 tablespoons) – To create that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Helps to sear the chicken and potatoes to golden perfection.
- Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – For a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the butter.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – For garnish and a pop of color.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the chicken and potatoes.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Thyme or Rosemary (1 teaspoon, dried or fresh sprigs) – For added herbaceous flavor.
Substitutions and Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
This recipe is very versatile and allows for plenty of substitutions and variations to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Chicken Breasts or Drumsticks – If you prefer, you can substitute the thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary.
- Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – Instead of baby potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Just cut them into evenly sized chunks.
- Ghee or Clarified Butter – For a slightly healthier alternative, you can use ghee instead of butter.
- Herbs – Switch up the herbs to your liking. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even oregano can be used for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
- Veggie Add-Ins – Add vegetables like green beans, carrots, or bell peppers to the skillet for an even heartier dish.
- Low-Sodium Broth – Use low-sodium chicken broth if you're watching your salt intake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet:
- Prep the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the baby potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and set everything aside. - Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. - Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear them for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. (It doesn't have to be fully cooked at this point; it will finish cooking later.) - Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the halved potatoes. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary. - Add the Garlic Butter
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. - Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add tons of flavor to the sauce. - Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin side up, along with any juices that accumulated on the plate. Spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and potatoes. - Finish Cooking
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fully tender. - Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is ready to be served!
How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick breakdown of the process for making this dish:
- Season and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown.
- Cook the potatoes in the same skillet until crispy.
- Add butter and garlic, then deglaze with chicken broth and lemon juice.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until done.
- Garnish with parsley and serve!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Skillet – If your skillet is too small for the chicken and potatoes, they won’t brown properly. Use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.
- Undercooking the Chicken – Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Burning the Garlic – Garlic can burn quickly. Be sure to lower the heat when adding it to the butter.
- Not Letting the Sauce Reduce – Let the garlic butter sauce simmer for a few minutes so it thickens slightly and becomes more flavorful.
- Skipping the Resting Time – Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes, presentation is key to making this simple dish look more appealing:
- Garnish with Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish.
- Serve in the Skillet – Present the dish directly in the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal that feels both cozy and elegant.
- Add Lemon Wedges – Serve with a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness that complements the rich garlic butter sauce.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet – If you have one, a cast-iron skillet is perfect for both cooking and serving as it holds heat well and adds a rustic charm to the table.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but if you want to add some extra sides, consider the following options:
- A Fresh Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables – Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a complete meal.
- Garlic Bread – A slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra buttery sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Looking to impress your guests? Here are a few ways to elevate the presentation of your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet:
- Serve on a Platter – Transfer the chicken and potatoes to a large serving platter and spoon the garlic butter sauce over everything for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with Extra Herbs – Add sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the platter for a gourmet look.
- Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil – Just before serving, drizzle some high-quality olive oil over the dish for a restaurant-quality finish.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips
To ensure your **
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes** turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs yield the juiciest results with crispy skin.
- Don’t Rush the Potatoes – Give the potatoes enough time to develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside.
- Double the Sauce – If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the garlic butter sauce ingredients. It’s perfect for drizzling over the chicken and potatoes or even dipping bread in.
- Make It Ahead – This dish reheats well, so feel free to prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish with boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time as they cook faster than bone-in thighs.
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Absolutely! You can use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm up in a skillet or oven.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: While chicken is the classic choice, this recipe works well with pork chops or even steak. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is a flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet, you can create a delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress! So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet Recipe
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a flavorful one-pan dish with juicy chicken, golden potatoes, and a delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Keywords: garlic butter chicken, chicken and potatoes skillet, one-pan chicken dinner, garlic butter skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and baby potatoes. Season with salt and pepper and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Reduce heat to low and add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Stir for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
- You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
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