Name: Easy Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes Skillet: One Pan Meal!
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1.5 lbs small waxy potatoes (red new, Yukon Gold, or fingerlings), quartered or cut into 1-inch pieces; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 8-10 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 small lemon, for zest and juice; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp onion powder

Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet – Imagine a meal so irresistibly delicious, so profoundly comforting, and yet so wonderfully simple that it practically cooks itself in a single pan. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug on a plate, a promise of ease and exceptional flavor after a long day. While it might not boast millennia of ancient history, the profound popularity of this dish stems from its brilliant marriage of universally beloved flavors and practical cooking. It’s a modern classic, a testament to how humble ingredients — succulent chicken, hearty potatoes, aromatic garlic, and rich butter — can converge to create something truly extraordinary, embodying the spirit of wholesome, satisfying home cooking.

I personally find immense joy in how this Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet transforms everyday staples into an incredibly fragrant and utterly delectable feast. The chicken emerges wonderfully tender and juicy, steeped in that intoxicating garlicky, buttery goodness, while the potatoes achieve that perfect balance of crisp exteriors and fluffy interiors. It’s the ultimate one-pan wonder, offering both incredible taste and the invaluable convenience of minimal cleanup, making it an undeniable favorite for countless busy households, mine included.

<h2>Ingredients:</h2>

<ul>
<li><strong>Chicken Thighs:</strong> 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I personally find thighs to be more forgiving and flavorful, staying wonderfully juicy throughout the cooking process. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used, but you might need to adjust cooking times slightly to prevent them from drying out. Make sure they are patted very dry for the best sear!</li>
<li><strong>Small Potatoes:</strong> 1.5 pounds small, waxy potatoes like red new potatoes, Yukon Golds, or fingerlings. These hold their shape beautifully and absorb all the incredible flavors of our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong> dish. Quarter them if they are small, or cut into 1-inch pieces if they’re a bit larger, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.</li>
<li><strong>Unsalted Butter:</strong> ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter. Using unsalted butter allows us to control the overall sodium content in our recipe. We’ll be infusing this with so much flavor!</li>
<li><strong>Fresh Garlic:</strong> 8-10 cloves, minced. Yes, that’s a lot of garlic, and trust me, it’s absolutely essential for that deep, aromatic flavor we’re after in this <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong>. Don’t be shy!</li>
<li><strong>Fresh Rosemary:</strong> 2 sprigs, finely chopped. Rosemary offers a wonderful woody, piney aroma that pairs incredibly well with chicken and potatoes. If you don’t have fresh, about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary can be substituted, but fresh is truly king here.</li>
<li><strong>Fresh Thyme:</strong> 1 tablespoon, fresh leaves picked from the stem. Thyme provides a delicate, earthy note that complements the other herbs beautifully. Again, fresh is best, but ½ teaspoon dried thyme can work in a pinch.</li>
<li><strong>Olive Oil:</strong> 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. We’ll use this for searing our chicken to get that gorgeous golden-brown crust.</li>
<li><strong>Chicken Broth:</strong> ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth. This helps to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful, luscious sauce that coats everything.</li&2;
<li><strong>Lemon:</strong> 1 small lemon, for zest and juice. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up all the rich flavors and adds a fantastic zing that you won’t want to skip.</li>
<li><strong>Fresh Parsley:</strong> ¼ cup fresh, chopped for garnish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the very end adds a pop of color and a fresh, clean finish to our hearty dish.</li>
<li><strong>Salt & Black Pepper:</strong> To taste. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for the chicken and potatoes, then adjust as needed.</li>
<li><strong>Smoked Paprika:</strong> 1 teaspoon. This is my secret weapon for adding a beautiful color and a hint of smoky depth that takes this <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong> to the next level.</li>
<li><strong>Onion Powder:</strong> ½ teaspoon. A little onion powder really enhances the savory notes of the dish.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Preparing the Chicken for Our Skillet Creation</h3>
<ol>
<li>First things first, let’s get our chicken ready! Take your 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them on a cutting board. It’s really important to pat them <strong>very dry</strong> with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear later, which locks in moisture and develops incredible flavor. Any excess moisture will steam the chicken instead of searing it, and we want crispy edges, not soggy ones!</li>
<li>Once they are nice and dry, season both sides of the chicken thighs generously. I like to use about ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, the full 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and the ½ teaspoon of onion powder. Really rub those seasonings into the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. This initial seasoning is vital for building layers of flavor from the very beginning of our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong> journey. Set the seasoned chicken aside while we prepare our other components.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Prepping the Potatoes for Perfection</h3>
<ol>
<li>Now, let’s turn our attention to the potatoes. Take your 1.5 pounds of small waxy potatoes (like red or Yukon Gold) and give them a good scrub under cold running water to remove any dirt. There’s no need to peel them; the skin adds texture, nutrition, and rustic charm to our dish. Plus, it’s less work for you!</li>
<li>Next, we need to cut the potatoes. The goal here is uniformity. If you’re using very small new potatoes, simply quarter them. For slightly larger potatoes, aim to cut them into roughly 1-inch pieces. The key is to make sure all the potato pieces are approximately the same size so they cook evenly. If some pieces are too large, they’ll be undercooked while others are perfect, and if some are too small, they might turn to mush. We want tender-crisp potatoes in every bite of our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong>!</li>
<li>Once cut, place the potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle them with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season them with a generous pinch of salt (about ¼ teaspoon) and a few grinds of black pepper. Toss them well to ensure they are all lightly coated. This initial seasoning and oil help them crisp up beautifully in the skillet and absorb the flavors later.</li</ol>

<h3>Crafting the Aromatic Garlic Herb Butter</h3>
<ol>
<li>This is where the magic really starts to happen for our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong>! Take your ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter and cut it into a few pieces to help it melt faster. Place the butter into a small, microwave-safe bowl or a very small saucepan.</li>
<li>Carefully mince your 8-10 cloves of fresh garlic. I know it seems like a lot, but trust me, it’s the heart and soul of this dish. The robust flavor of so much garlic, mellowed by butter and cooking, is simply irresistible. If you have a garlic press, now’s the time to use it!</li>
<li>Finely chop your 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary. Remove the leaves from the stems first, then gather them together and chop them until they are quite fine. For the fresh thyme, simply pick the leaves from the stems until you have about 1 tablespoon. Discard the woody stems.</li>
<li>Melt the butter. You can do this gently in the microwave in 15-second intervals, or over very low heat on the stovetop. Once the butter is mostly melted, stir in the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and fresh thyme leaves. Add a pinch more salt (about ¼ teaspoon) and a grind of black pepper to this mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. The aroma alone will be intoxicating! This infused garlic herb butter is what will bring all the components of our skillet meal together.</li</ol>

<h3>The Cooking Process: Searing and Sautéing</h3>
<ol>
<li>Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet – preferably cast iron, if you have one – over medium-high heat. Cast iron skillets retain heat beautifully and provide an excellent sear, which is exactly what we want for our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong>. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet. Let it shimmer for about 30 seconds, indicating it’s hot enough.</li>
<li>Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on) or simply presentation-side down if skinless. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and prevent a good sear. Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes per side, until it develops a beautiful deep golden-brown crust. You’re looking for that rich, appetizing color that signifies intense flavor. The internal temperature doesn’t need to be perfect at this stage, as it will finish cooking with the potatoes.</li>
<li>Once both sides of the chicken are nicely seared, transfer the chicken to a plate. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through; it will finish simmering in the pan later. The goal here is just to build that fantastic outer crust and render some fat into the pan, which will add even more flavor to our potatoes.</li>
<li>Reduce the heat to medium. Add the seasoned potatoes to the same skillet, stirring to coat them in the leftover chicken drippings and olive oil. Spread them out in a single layer as much as possible. Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally (every 5-7 minutes), for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, they should start to soften and develop some lovely browned, crispy edges. You’ll want to hear that gentle sizzle, and see the potatoes transforming from pale to golden. If they start sticking too much, add another small drizzle of olive oil, but generally, the chicken drippings should provide enough fat.</li</ol>

<h3>Bringing It All Together: Finishing Our <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong></h3>
<ol>
<li>Once the potatoes are tender-crisp and nicely browned, it’s time to reintroduce the star of the show! Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the potatoes. Pour the entire reserved garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes. The fragrant aroma at this point will be absolutely incredible; your kitchen will smell divine!</li>
<li>Next, pour in the ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This broth will help deglaze any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, which we lovingly call “fond.” These bits are pure flavor gold, contributing immense depth to our sauce. It will also create a simmering liquid that will finish cooking the chicken and soften the potatoes even further, coating everything in a rich, buttery, garlicky sauce.</li>
<li>Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything cook together for another 10-15 minutes. This simmering stage is crucial. It allows the chicken to cook through completely, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and gives the potatoes a chance to become wonderfully tender and absorb all the beautiful garlic butter flavors. The herbs will infuse the broth, creating a truly spectacular sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.</li>
<li>While the skillet is simmering, grab your lemon. Zest about half of the lemon directly over the skillet; the bright citrus oils will add an immediate lift to the dish. Then, slice the lemon in half and squeeze the juice of one half directly into the skillet. This burst of acidity is a game-changer, cutting through the richness of the butter and bringing all the flavors into perfect balance. Stir gently to distribute the lemon and ensure everything is coated.</li>
<li>Before serving, give the dish a taste. This is your chance to adjust the seasonings. Does it need a little more salt? A pinch more pepper? Perhaps another tiny squeeze of lemon for extra brightness? Seasoning to taste at the end makes all the difference!</li>
<li>Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Generously sprinkle the ¼ cup of fresh, chopped parsley over the entire <strong>Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504=</strong>. The vibrant green parsley adds a lovely fresh counterpoint and a beautiful finishing touch. Serve immediately, perhaps straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor! This dish is perfect on its own, or you could serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to sop up all that incredible garlic butter sauce.</li>
</ol>

Conclusion:

You’ve journeyed with me through the simple steps of creating something truly special, and now it’s time to reflect on why this particular dish deserves a permanent spot in your culinary rotation. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a promise of warmth, incredible flavor, and remarkable ease. I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your home, eagerly anticipated by everyone at your table. The profound beauty of this dish lies in its uncanny ability to deliver gourmet-level taste with minimal fuss, transforming everyday ingredients like chicken and potatoes into an extraordinary meal. It’s the kind of comforting food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfectly suited for those bustling weeknights when you crave something wholesome, deeply satisfying, and utterly delicious without the need to spend endless hours in the kitchen.

The magic, as you’ve seen, truly unfolds right there in that single skillet. Imagine, if you will, succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly golden-brown and wonderfully crisp on the outside yet unbelievably juicy and tender within. These mingle effortlessly with fork-tender, savory potatoes, each bite a delightful texture. And all of it, every single component, is gloriously bathed in an aromatic, rich garlic butter sauce that permeates every crevice, ensuring maximum flavor in every mouthful. Every single bite is an explosion of savory goodness, a testament to how simple, quality ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create such profound culinary satisfaction. The fragrant aroma that will undoubtedly fill your kitchen as this masterpiece cooks is just a delightful prelude to the magnificent experience waiting for you. It’s a dish that truly appeals to everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning palates, ensuring smiles all around.

But the versatility of this incredible recipe doesn’t stop at the main dish itself. While it is utterly complete and satisfying on its own, feeling free to serve this magnificent Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet?8352935504= alongside a fresh, vibrant green salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette, can add a wonderful counterpoint of texture and brightness, cutting through the richness beautifully. A basket of warm, crusty artisan bread is also a highly recommended addition, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delectable garlic butter sauce – a truly unmissable pleasure! For a slightly different twist, a side of steamed green beans or tender asparagus, perhaps lightly seasoned with a squeeze of fresh lemon, would complement the main dish’s richness wonderfully, adding an extra layer of freshness and a touch of vibrant color to your meal.

Feeling adventurous or simply looking to personalize it further? This recipe is incredibly forgiving and open to your creative touches. Consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking; it will melt beautifully, adding an extra layer of salty, umami flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and potatoes. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can significantly brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness with a delightful, zesty tang. You could also experiment with different herbs – a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme would introduce a lovely earthy note, while a touch of smoked paprika could add a subtle depth and warmth that will tantalize your taste buds. For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes would certainly awaken the senses, adding a welcome warmth to the dish.

Why This Skillet Meal Is a Game-Changer for Any Home Cook

Seriously, I’m not just hyping this up because I created it. I’ve made this countless times for my own family and friends, and the unanimous verdict is always one of pure delight and often requests for the recipe! It’s the perfect solution for when you want to impress without the stress, or simply treat yourself to a delicious, home-cooked meal without the daunting cleanup afterward. The minimal cleanup is, for me, a massive bonus, making it even more appealing after a long day! It truly embodies the ideal weeknight dinner: it’s fast to prepare, bursting with flavor, and incredibly fulfilling. It serves as undeniable proof that sophisticated, restaurant-quality flavors absolutely do not require complicated techniques or an endless list of obscure ingredients.

So, please, don’t just take my word for it. I genuinely urge you to set aside some time this week to whip up this incredible meal. Gather your simple ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and prepare to be utterly amazed by the deliciousness that unfolds in your very own kitchen. I promise you won’t regret it – this dish is a winner. And once you’ve savored every mouth-watering bite, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear about your experience! Did you add any unique twists or your own personal flair? What did your family think of it? Share your culinary adventures and feedback in the comments section below, or feel free to tag me on social media. Your stories, insights, and shared joy are what truly inspire me and help this wonderful cooking community grow and flourish.

Cooking, for me, is about more than just food; it’s about joy, connection, and creating beautiful, lasting memories around the dinner table. This recipe, with its undeniable charm and incredible flavor, is perfectly designed to do just that. It’s an open invitation to savor the simple, yet profound, pleasures of a well-cooked meal shared with loved ones. Enjoy every single moment of the process, from the enticing sizzle in the skillet to that very last, delicious bite. Happy cooking, my dear friends!