If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe delivers everything you want in one skillet. Juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce come together for a meal that feels indulgent but is still simple enough for a busy weeknight.
This recipe is inspired by classic Midwestern comfort food. It uses easy-to-find ingredients, straightforward steps, and flavors the whole family loves. Whether you are cooking for picky eaters or hosting friends, this dish is warm, satisfying, and reliably delicious.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
This dish checks all the boxes for a dependable dinner recipe.
First, it is a complete meal in one pan. You get protein, starch, and creamy sauce all in a single dish, which means fewer dishes and easier cleanup.
Second, the flavors are rich but familiar. Garlic, butter, Parmesan, and mozzarella create a sauce that feels restaurant-quality without being complicated or overwhelming.
Third, it is flexible. You can cook the potatoes in an air fryer or oven, adjust the seasoning to taste, and even swap ingredients if needed. This makes it a great recipe to return to again and again.
Finally, it comes together quickly. From prep to plate, you can have dinner ready in about 35 to 40 minutes.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Chicken and Potatoes
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 4 to 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 half teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 to 2 tablespoons minced garlic, adjust to taste
- 3 to 4 tablespoons garlic Parmesan sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but chicken thighs can be used if you prefer darker meat. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes crisp nicely and hold up well in the sauce. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option if you want a slightly creamier texture.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Bottled garlic Parmesan sauce is convenient and flavorful. If you do not have it, you can substitute a mild garlic Alfredo sauce or make a quick version using cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts smoothly and gives the dish a creamy finish. Italian blend cheese or shredded Parmesan can be used for a sharper flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the salt level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cube the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
If using an air fryer, preheat it to 400 degrees F. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
If using an oven, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 400 degrees F for about 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Set the cooked potatoes aside.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the cubed chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the garlic Parmesan sauce, making sure the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Cheese
Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet and gently stir to combine with the chicken and sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the chicken and potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This helps it brown instead of steam.
- Add the garlic last and keep an eye on it. Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Taste the sauce before adding extra salt. Bottled sauces and cheese can already be salty.
- For extra crisp potatoes, cook them a few minutes longer before combining with the chicken.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
- Herb Lover’s Version: Stir in dried Italian seasoning or fresh thyme.
- Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli, green beans, or spinach before serving.
- Lemon Garlic Twist: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in grated Parmesan along with the mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dish pairs well with lighter sides that balance the richness.
Serve it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus. A slice of crusty bread is also great for soaking up extra sauce.
For a more filling meal, you can serve it alongside rice or buttered noodles, though it is already quite hearty on its own.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the sauce may change texture slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A comforting one-skillet dinner with juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce finished with melted mozzarella.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 4 to 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 to 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 to 4 tablespoons garlic Parmesan sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Peel and cube the potatoes, then toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes or roast in the oven at 400°F for about 30 minutes until tender.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until cooked through and lightly golden.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the garlic Parmesan sauce until the chicken is well coated.
- Add the cooked potatoes and gently stir to combine.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until melted.
- Remove from heat, garnish if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken and add garlic last to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 |
| Protein | ~38 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~32 g |
| Fat | ~28 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~780 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the potatoes and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat everything together with the sauce and cheese until warmed through.
What if I do not have an air fryer?
No problem. Roasting the potatoes in the oven works just as well. They may take a little longer, but the flavor will still be excellent.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They are slightly juicier and add extra flavor to the dish.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are mild, creamy, and comforting. You can reduce the garlic slightly if your kids prefer a gentler taste.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Use reduced-fat cheese, a lighter garlic Parmesan sauce, and add more vegetables to balance the richness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is the kind of dinner you will come back to again and again. It is easy, comforting, and full of familiar flavors that never disappoint. Whether you are feeding your family on a weeknight or sharing a cozy meal with friends, this dish is always a success.