Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Craving a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare? This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this one-pan dish delivers bold flavors while keeping cleanup minimal. Follow along as we guide you through the entire process of creating this delicious dish, with all the tips and tricks you need for the perfect result. Let’s get cooking!

What is Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan dish where succulent chicken is seared and cooked alongside tender potatoes in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that combines savory flavors with the creamy texture of potatoes, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is both simple to follow and irresistibly delicious. The buttery sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, perfectly coats both the chicken and potatoes, making each bite flavorful and indulgent.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish. Here’s a breakdown of everything required for this savory meal:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 4-6 pieces (bone-in or boneless, skin-on for extra crispiness)
• Baby Potatoes: 1 lb, halved or quartered depending on size
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided (for that rich, creamy garlic sauce)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for searing the chicken)
• Garlic: 5-6 cloves, minced (the key to the bold, savory flavor)
• Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon each of chopped parsley, rosemary, and thyme
• Chicken Broth: ½ cup (to enhance the flavor and help cook the potatoes)
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon (for seasoning the chicken)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (for a bright finish to the dish)

Substitutions and Variations

Need to make adjustments to the recipe? No problem! Here are a few simple substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Variations: You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer white meat. Boneless chicken cooks faster but may not be as juicy as bone-in, so keep that in mind.
• Potato Options: If you don’t have baby potatoes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent alternatives. Just make sure to cut them into small, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook through.
• Herb Substitutions: Feel free to substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for.
• Garlic Lovers: If you’re a huge garlic fan, you can increase the garlic by a couple more cloves for an even more intense flavor.
• Keto-Friendly Option: For those following a low-carb diet, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets or another low-carb vegetable.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the process so you can make this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet with ease:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by seasoning the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set it aside while you halve or quarter the baby potatoes and mince the garlic.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the halved potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender on the inside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to a minute, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, followed by the fresh herbs and chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the potatoes are tender.
6. Finish with Lemon Juice: Once cooked, drizzle a tablespoon of lemon juice over the skillet to add a bright, zesty finish to the rich flavors of garlic and butter.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking the perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet comes down to a few key steps:

1. Season the Chicken Properly: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Paprika adds a mild smokiness while salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
2. Get a Good Sear: When searing the chicken, patience is key. Don’t move the chicken around too much in the pan—let it sit until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This not only locks in the moisture but also creates layers of flavor.
3. Cook Potatoes Until Crispy: The trick to perfectly cooked potatoes is to get them crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice golden-brown crust.
4. Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can go from fragrant to bitter very quickly, so be sure to sauté it for just long enough to release its aroma.
5. Let It Simmer: Allow the sauce and chicken to simmer together for a good 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the chicken remains juicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Skillet: Avoid crowding the pan when searing the chicken and cooking the potatoes. Overcrowding will result in steaming rather than searing, which affects texture and flavor.
2. Undercooking the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
3. Using Too Little Butter: The butter is a key component in making the dish rich and flavorful, so don’t cut back on it. It balances the savory notes of garlic and makes the sauce creamy.
4. Skipping the Lemon Juice: The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter and adds a fresh pop of flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate the enjoyment of your meal. Here are some ways to serve and present your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet to impress your guests:

• Serve in the Skillet: For a rustic yet elegant presentation, serve the dish directly from the skillet. The golden-brown chicken and crispy potatoes look visually stunning in the pan.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme adds a touch of color and extra flavor right before serving.
• Add a Side of Greens: Complement this hearty dish with a fresh side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce or with a side of creamy mashed potatoes if you want extra indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

• Rustic Style: Serve the entire skillet family-style in the center of the table for an inviting, casual meal.
• Individual Portions: For a more formal dinner, plate each chicken piece with a few potatoes and drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to ensure a good sear.
• Cut Potatoes Evenly: To ensure all the potatoes cook evenly, make sure to cut them into similar sizes.
• Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more minced garlic. You can also adjust the amount of lemon juice and herbs based on your personal preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.

2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and potatoes separately and store them in the fridge, then reheat them in the garlic butter sauce when ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes pairs well with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter sauce.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines the juicy goodness of pan-seared chicken with crispy, golden potatoes, all smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s packed with herbs and seasoning. With just a few simple ingredients and a one-pan method, this recipe is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress! Now that you have all the steps, tips, and variations, it’s time to grab your skillet and get cooking. Enjoy!

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