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If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe. Juicy, golden chicken thighs paired with tender, buttery baby potatoes create a harmony of flavors that’s incredibly satisfying. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich garlic butter, subtle herbs, and a touch of paprika that brings out the best in every ingredient. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you want something simple yet utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding texture, or creating that irresistible golden color we all love.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These give juicy, tender meat that stays moist throughout cooking.
- 1 lb baby potatoes, quartered: Their small size helps them cook quickly and soak up all the buttery goodness.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter creates the rich base for our sauce and helps with browning for incredible flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings that aromatic punch that makes this skillet irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds depth and a touch of earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for a perfect sear on the potatoes and chicken before adding butter.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh burst of color and subtle herbaceous notes to finish the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by generously seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This initial layer of flavor will soak into the meat and create that savory crust once cooked. It sets the foundation for the dish’s bold, comforting taste.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the quartered baby potatoes and let them cook undisturbed for 10 to 12 minutes. This process creates beautifully golden, tender potatoes with a slightly crispy edge that adds a wonderful textural contrast to the dish.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in moisture and flavor, making your chicken juicy and satisfying.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Remove the chicken and potatoes temporarily, then toss the minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic is the magic ingredient here, infusing the butter sauce with warm, savory notes that tie every element of this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe together.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the chicken and potatoes to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors. This step takes your dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the skillet just before serving. This bright herb adds a fresh finish and a pop of color that makes the dish look as amazing as it tastes.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped fresh parsley is a simple but brilliant garnish that brings an herbaceous brightness to every bite. For a little extra zing, you could also try a light sprinkle of lemon zest or a few red pepper flakes to add contrast and color.
Side Dishes
While this skillet is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans adds freshness and lifts the richness beautifully. A simple crusty bread also works wonders to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken and potatoes family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic vibe. For a dinner party flair, portion the chicken and potatoes onto individual plates, drizzle with the garlicky butter sauce, and garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge. It’s a guaranteed showstopper that looks effortlessly stylish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe freezes well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy edges on the potatoes and keeps the chicken juicy. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to dry out the texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but they cook faster and are leaner, so watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying them out. The thighs do stay juicier, but breasts can be a great leaner option.
What can I substitute for baby potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes on hand, fingerling potatoes or small Yukon Golds are fantastic alternatives. Just be sure to cut them into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or an extra tablespoon of olive oil. The garlic and herbs carry most of the flavor, so the dish will still be delicious.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe has a mild warmth from paprika but isn’t spicy. You can easily add chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you want to turn up the heat.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can season your chicken and prep the potatoes ahead of time, but for the best texture and flavor, cook the dish fresh when ready. If pressed for time, cooking in steps and combining everything last minute works well too.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is the kind of dish that brings comfort, ease, and flavor all at once. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself after a long day, it’s a reliable go-to that feels special without any fuss. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s such a beloved favorite.
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