Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

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If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner that satisfies the whole family, this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection and nestled alongside crispy golden potatoes, all smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce – it’s a one-pan meal that promises minimal cleanup and maximum taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and adaptable, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet combines simple ingredients to create an extraordinary dish. The chicken thighs remain tender and juicy thanks to the skillet cooking method, while the potatoes soak up all the garlicky, buttery goodness, becoming irresistibly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a complete meal in one pan, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your food.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors – the savory garlic butter, the herbs, and the slight caramelization on the chicken and potatoes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and additions based on what you have on hand. This dish also reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

How To Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Next, wash and halve or quarter the baby potatoes so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 6-8 minutes without moving them. This will render the fat and create a crispy golden crust. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add the potatoes cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Stir and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add butter and minced garlic to the cleared space. Stir frequently for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted, making sure not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them in with the potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, which will help deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are fully tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken slightly, cooking uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For extra crispy skin, make sure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning and cooking.
• Use baby potatoes or fingerlings for even cooking and better texture.
• Don’t rush the browning step—it’s key to flavor development.
• If you don’t have chicken broth, water with a pinch of salt works in a pinch.
• Adjust the garlic amount to your taste; adding a roasted garlic clove can add a mild sweetness.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
• If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, reduce the simmer time to avoid overcooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add vegetables: Toss in green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts during the simmering stage for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat and smokiness.
• Herb swap: Try rosemary or basil instead of thyme and oregano for different flavor profiles.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk after simmering for a luscious sauce.
• Use chicken breast: If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast pieces can be used but watch cooking times closely to prevent drying out.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well – freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen potatoes, but keep in mind they might release more moisture, which can affect the crispiness. Thaw and pat them dry before cooking for best results.

Is it necessary to use bone-in chicken thighs?

Bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicier during cooking, but boneless thighs or breasts can be used if you prefer. Just reduce cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor will still be deliciously rich.

What side dishes go well with this skillet meal?

This dish is quite complete on its own, but a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread are great accompaniments if you want more variety.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the fuss. The crispy skin on the chicken, the tender, flavorful potatoes, and the luscious garlic butter sauce come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation!

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