If you're looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner, this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a must-try. Juicy, flavorful chicken is pan-seared to perfection alongside tender, golden-brown potatoes, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This one-pan wonder is ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it’s fancy enough for a special meal. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
What is Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a simple, one-pan meal featuring seared chicken breasts or thighs, crispy potatoes, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. The dish is flavored with fresh herbs and garlic, making it incredibly aromatic and delicious. The skillet cooking method ensures everything is golden, tender, and full of flavor. It’s a well-balanced meal that pairs protein and carbs in a single skillet, making dinner a breeze.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1 lb baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes), cut into halves or quarters
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional, for added flavor)
These simple ingredients combine to create a savory, garlicky sauce that brings the chicken and potatoes to life.
Substitutions and Variations
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to make substitutions or add other ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor. You can also use bone-in chicken pieces, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted.
- Potatoes: Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes work well, but you can use russet potatoes or even sweet potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Vegetables: Add veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. Simply toss them into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Herbs: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a flavor boost. You can also sprinkle some fresh lemon juice over the dish for added brightness.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you want a bit of heat.
These substitutions and additions allow you to customize the dish to your tastes or whatever you have on hand.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started on making this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet with these easy steps.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the baby potatoes, cut-side down, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and fork-tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside with the potatoes.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. If you’re using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, add them to the skillet at this stage to infuse the butter with their flavor.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Potatoes to the Skillet
Return the cooked chicken and potatoes to the skillet, tossing them gently in the garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly. Allow everything to simmer together for about 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the chicken and potatoes with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet turns out perfectly, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding the skillet can cause the chicken and potatoes to steam instead of sear, leading to less crispy results. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid this.
- Undercooking or Overcooking Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly—juicy, not dry.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Be sure to cook the garlic over medium-low heat and keep a close eye on it to avoid bitterness.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty meal on its own, but you can elevate it even further with thoughtful presentation and side dishes.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
- Serve the chicken and potatoes directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
- Pair the dish with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
- For a more filling meal, serve with a side of buttered rolls or garlic bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
- Garnish: Top the dish with freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Family-Style: Place the skillet in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal dining experience.
- Individual Portions: Plate each serving with a spoonful of garlic butter sauce drizzled over the chicken and potatoes for a more elegant presentation.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cut the potatoes and season the chicken a few hours before cooking, then simply cook everything when you’re ready to eat.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so feel free to use them if you prefer.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, green beans, or zucchini can be added to the skillet. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken to ensure they’re tender but still crisp.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. You’ll still get great flavor!
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect weeknight meal—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. With juicy chicken, crispy golden potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a dish that everyone at the table will love. The best part? It’s all made in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you're feeding the family or hosting a casual dinner, this dish will satisfy every craving for a comforting, hearty meal. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this savory, garlic-packed delight!
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Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This garlic butter chicken and potatoes skillet recipe is a delicious one-pan meal featuring juicy, tender chicken thighs, crispy golden potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick and easy dish delivers bold flavors with minimal cleanup. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the halved baby potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
- Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over the chicken and potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred.
- Add extra veggies like green beans or asparagus to make it a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
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