Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes (One-Pan Dinner)

A one-pan dinner that’s hearty, comforting, and unbelievably easy to pull together — that’s the magic of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes. This recipe brings tender, perfectly seasoned chicken and crispy, golden potatoes together in a single pan, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for busy families and home cooks craving simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With the bold combination of garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and Italian spices, every bite delivers a satisfying burst of savory richness.

This dish embodies everything great about one-pan cooking: minimal mess, minimal effort, and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or need something dependable that tastes amazing every time, this recipe fits the bill beautifully. It’s approachable, beginner-friendly, and highly customizable, all while staying true to classic comfort-food roots.

Serve it straight off the sheet pan for a rustic family-style meal, or dress it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an elegant but stress-free dinner. Either way, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A true one-pan dinner with easy cleanup.
• Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Uses everyday pantry ingredients you likely already have.
• Family-friendly flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Tender chicken and perfectly crispy potatoes every time.
• Customizable with additional vegetables, herbs, or spices.

Ingredients Breakdown

Below is the complete list of ingredients, exactly as provided, grouped for clarity.

Servings: 4

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Potatoes:

• 1.5 pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

These ingredients work together to create the perfect balance of texture and seasoning: juicy, well-seasoned chicken paired with crispy, garlicky potatoes coated in grated Parmesan. Nothing extra is needed for flavor because the core components carry the dish beautifully.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this recipe as smooth and efficient as possible, gather the following tools:

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional but recommended)
• Mixing bowls (one small, one medium or large)
• Measuring spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs or spatula
• Oven mitts

You won’t need any specialty equipment — another reason this recipe is perfect for weeknight cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps exactly for perfectly cooked chicken and crispy potatoes every time.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning.
• In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts.
• Coat each piece evenly with the seasoning mixture, ensuring both sides are well covered.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

• Place the halved baby potatoes into a large mixing bowl.
• Add 3 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
• Toss until every potato is fully coated in oil, garlic, and cheese. This mixture helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven.

4. Assemble on the Pan

• Spread the seasoned chicken on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
• Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the other side of the sheet pan. Avoid overlapping to ensure even roasting and crispiness.

5. Bake

• Roast the chicken and potatoes for 25–30 minutes.
• Halfway through, use a spatula or tongs to flip the potatoes for even browning.
• Check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Optional Finishing Touch

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle additional Parmesan over the chicken and potatoes.
Broil briefly to achieve a beautifully golden, crisp top layer.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

Make it Vegetarian

Swap the chicken for thick-cut cauliflower steaks or extra-firm tofu slabs seasoned with the same spice blend.

Make it Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Make it Dairy-Free

Skip the Parmesan; replace it with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for savory flavor.

Add More Vegetables

You can incorporate:

• Broccoli florets
• Brussels sprouts
• Carrots
• Green beans

Toss additional vegetables in olive oil and seasonings and bake alongside the chicken and potatoes.

Adjust the Spice Level

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to increase heat.
Use more smoked paprika for deeper flavor.

Seasonal Swaps

• Fall: Add cubed butternut squash.
• Summer: Use cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini.
• Winter: Include parsnips or turnips.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Taste

This recipe offers a savory, hearty blend of flavors. The chicken is juicy with warm notes of Italian herbs and smoked paprika, while the potatoes deliver garlicky, salty, cheesy richness with a crispy exterior.

Texture

• Chicken: Tender and moist.
• Potatoes: Crispy edges with a fluffy interior.
• Parmesan: Adds mild crunch and umami.

Best Side Dishes

Keep it simple with sides that complement without overpowering:

• Mixed green salad
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Buttered green peas
• Garlic bread

Nutritional Overview

Estimated per serving (4 servings total):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: High, thanks to chicken and Parmesan
• Carbohydrates: Moderate from potatoes
• Fat: Balanced from olive oil and cheese

This recipe is a wholesome, balanced meal providing lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich potatoes.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

What You Can Prep in Advance

• Pre-mix the chicken seasoning.
• Halve the potatoes up to 24 hours ahead and store them submerged in cold water (drain before baking).
• Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan ahead of time.
• Season the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating

• Oven: Warm at 350°F until heated through.
• Air fryer: Ideal for recapturing crispiness.
• Microwave: Convenient but may soften the potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes — thighs work beautifully and remain extra juicy.

Can I use larger russet potatoes?

Yes, but cut them into small chunks to ensure even cooking.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes. Broccoli, carrots, green beans, or zucchini roast well with the same timing.

How do I keep my potatoes crispy?

Make sure they’re in a single layer and toss halfway through baking.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Plate the chicken breasts alongside a generous helping of crispy potatoes. Sprinkle with parsley or additional Parmesan for a finishing touch. Serve family-style on the sheet pan for a rustic, relaxed dinner.

Recipe Variations

Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes

Add lemon zest and juice to brighten the flavor.

Spicy Paprika Chicken and Potatoes

Increase smoked paprika and add cayenne.

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

Serve with a quick homemade garlic cream sauce.

Mediterranean Style

Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan brings essential savory depth and crispy texture to this dish. Look for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for maximum melt and flavor.

How to Store:
Keep Parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to several weeks.

Baby Potatoes

Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for roasting because they hold their shape and crisp beautifully.

Selection Tips:
Choose firm, smooth potatoes free of blemishes.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning — moisture prevents browning.
• Spread everything in a single layer to ensure crisp roasting.
• Use a thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Broil at the end to enhance color and crunch.
• Add extra garlic only in the last few minutes if you want a stronger flavor without burning.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Storage

• Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Freezing

• Cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Potatoes do not freeze well and may become grainy or soft after thawing.
• If freezing chicken only, wrap tightly and label with the date.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	Moderate–High
Carbohydrates	Moderate
Fat	Moderate
Fiber	From potatoes
Dietary Notes	Gluten-free, nut-free

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is a one-pan dinner that delivers comfort, flavor, and incredible ease — all in under an hour. With perfectly seasoned chicken, crispy potatoes, and a rich layer of garlic and Parmesan in every bite, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple after just one try.

Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for reliable weeknight meals or someone who simply appreciates simple, delicious food, this dish never disappoints. Make it once and it will earn a permanent place in your rotation. Try it soon, share it with family and friends, and come back for more easy, flavorful recipes.

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