Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, golden potatoes, and aromatic herbs in a rich garlic butter sauce. This one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and impresses equally at family gatherings. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is a must-try for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under an hour, this dish requires minimal prep and cleanup.
- Full of Flavor: The garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs takes the chicken and potatoes to the next level.
- Versatile: Perfect as a complete meal or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: A balanced dish that satisfies kids and adults alike.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 1 1/2 lb (650g) chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 1/2 lb (650g) baby yellow potatoes, quartered
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for paleo)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips with soy sauce, olive oil, hot sauce, and fresh cracked pepper.
- Toss to coat evenly and set aside to marinate while preparing the potatoes.
Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the quartered potatoes and parboil for 8 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes cook faster and achieve a crispy golden crust.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the parboiled potatoes.
- Cook the potatoes for about 4 minutes without stirring to develop a golden crust. Stir and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until fork-tender.
- Transfer the potatoes to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Lay the marinated chicken strips in a single layer and reserve the marinade for later.
- Add minced garlic and crushed red chili pepper flakes to the chicken.
- Cook the chicken strips for 1-2 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Potatoes
- Stir the reserved marinade into the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the marinade thickens slightly and coats the chicken.
- Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano, giving everything a quick stir.
- Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and mix gently to combine. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs, crushed red chili flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken and potatoes into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano add a depth of flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
- Don’t Skip Parboiling: Parboiling the potatoes ensures they cook through and develop a golden crust in the skillet.
- Control the Heat: Keep the skillet at medium-high heat for a perfect sear on the chicken and crispy potatoes.
- Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking ensures it stays juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dinner table:
- Vegetables:
- Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach pair well with this dish.
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Grains:
- Serve with a side of buttery rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Bread:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the garlic butter sauce.
- Wine Pairing:
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the garlic and herb flavors.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
- Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for extra heat.
Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes
- Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the skillet during the final steps for a fresh, citrusy twist. This variation adds brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the butter.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
- Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce after cooking the chicken for a richer, creamier dish. This version pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Vegetarian Option
- Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version. Use vegetable broth in place of soy sauce. This adaptation is perfect for vegetarians while maintaining the dish’s robust flavors.
Mediterranean Style
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. This adds a tangy, savory profile that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
Nutritional Insights:
- High Protein: This dish provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Complex Carbohydrates: The potatoes offer complex carbs, making this meal filling and satisfying.
- Balanced Fats: The olive oil and butter provide healthy fats that support heart health and flavor enhancement.
- Rich in Fiber: The potatoes contribute to dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
You can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano will still provide a robust flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can parboil the potatoes and marinate the chicken in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Prepare everything in the skillet just before serving for the freshest taste.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes separately for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to refresh the flavors and prevent dryness.
How Do I Prevent the Garlic from Burning?
Add the garlic after the butter has melted and reduce the heat slightly. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor, so keep a close eye while cooking and stir frequently.
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Yellow Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness to the dish that complements the savory garlic butter sauce. Adjust the cooking time slightly as sweet potatoes tend to cook faster.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal that delivers on flavor, ease, and versatility. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!