If you’re craving a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place! Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a favorite for busy weeknights. With juicy chicken, tender baby potatoes, and delicious garlic, this simple recipe satisfies everyone at the table. Join me as I guide you through each step—from prepping ingredients to serving up a tasty meal that will impress! Ready to cook? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Chicken
– Baby Potatoes
– Garlic
– Parmesan Cheese
– Olive Oil
– Italian Seasoning
– Paprika
– Salt and Pepper
– Fresh Parsley
Measurements
– Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Baby Potatoes: 2 cups, halved
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Parmesan Cheese: 1/3 cup, grated
– Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
– Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
– Paprika: 1 teaspoon
– Salt and Pepper: to taste
– Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish
Suggested Tools and Equipment
– Oven-safe skillet
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
Gather these ingredients and tools before you start cooking. This way, you can enjoy a smooth and fun cooking experience. Each item adds flavor and texture to the dish. Plus, having everything ready makes it easier. Trust me; it helps to stay organized!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. Next, gather all your ingredients. You will need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 cups of halved baby potatoes, and some fresh garlic.
Marinating the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and some salt and pepper. Mix these well. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl. Coat each piece evenly with the garlic mixture. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes. This will help the chicken soak up the flavors.
Coating the Potatoes
In another bowl, add the halved baby potatoes. Toss them with the remaining garlic mixture. Ensure they are well coated with the oil and seasoning. This step makes the potatoes flavorful. Next, take a large oven-safe skillet. Arrange the marinated chicken in the center. Place the seasoned potatoes around the chicken.
Baking the Dish
Sprinkle 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes. This adds a nice cheesy taste. Now, place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for the chicken to be cooked through and the potatoes to be tender. When done, take it out and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Marinating
Marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes. This short time helps the chicken soak up the garlic and spice flavors. For more flavor, you can marinate it longer, even overnight. Use a zip-top bag to make marinating easy and avoid spills. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist.
Perfect Baking Techniques
For even cooking, space the chicken and potatoes well in the skillet. This allows hot air to circulate. If you like crispy edges, bake at 400°F for the full time. Adjust the baking time if using larger chicken pieces or more potatoes. Always check the doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken.
Garnishing Ideas
To make your dish look nice, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This adds color and a fresh taste. Serve the chicken and potatoes on a large platter for a beautiful display. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can brighten the flavors. You can also try drizzling balsamic glaze for extra flair.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap out chicken for other proteins. Try using turkey or pork. Both cook well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors. For fish, choose a firm type like salmon or cod. Adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking. Fish usually cooks faster, so check it at 15-20 minutes.
Flavor Variations
To enhance the taste, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also mix in spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. Consider tossing in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. They will roast nicely and add color to the dish. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the potatoes.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free. For low-carb options, swap potatoes for cauliflower. Cauliflower will roast beautifully and absorb the flavors while keeping the carbs low.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the dish. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months. When you freeze, make sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers. This helps prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist and the potatoes soft. You can also use a microwave, but the oven gives better flavor and texture.
Meal Prep Suggestions
If you want to make this dish in advance, it’s easy! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the potatoes the night before. Just keep them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. When portioning for meal prep, divide the chicken and potatoes into single servings. Use small containers so they are ready to grab and go during the week. This makes meals quick and simple!
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook than boneless. You should adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as substitutes. Pecorino Romano has a saltier flavor. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste without dairy. Each option will change the flavor slightly, but they still work well in this dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. You can also look for clear juices when you cut into it. The meat should not be pink. Another sign is that the chicken is firm and not soft.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious chicken and potatoes dish. We talked about the needed ingredients, measurements, and the best tools for cooking. I provided step-by-step instructions from marinating to baking, plus helpful tips and variations. You can adjust the recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Remember, storing leftovers correctly keeps your meal fresh. Use this guide to create a tasty, satisfying dish that everyone will love. Cooking can be fun and simple with the right steps!
