This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Bake is a tasty one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken and crispy potatoes. It’s loaded with garlic and cheesy goodness!
What’s not to love about a dish that requires minimal cleanup? I could even eat the leftovers for breakfast—yes, I’m that person! 😄 Just pop it in the oven and relax while it cooks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You could swap them for thighs for more flavor or even use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great because they cook evenly! If these are unavailable, try using regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they cook through.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor. If you don’t have it, try using Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free version.
Olive Oil: Use olive oil for roasting. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can also be great options.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken and Potatoes Cook Evenly?
Cooking chicken and potatoes together can be smooth if prepared correctly. Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes so they cook at the same rate as the chicken. Start by tossing the potatoes with oil and seasonings to coat them well to enhance their flavor.
- Preheat your oven: Always preheat the oven so that your ingredients can start cooking right away.
- Layering: Place the potatoes in a single layer at the bottom, which helps with even cooking. Position the chicken nicely on top for even roasting.
- Checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer for quick checks. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C), and the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.
For that golden finish, feel free to broil for a few minutes at the end—but stay nearby to avoid burning! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total of around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your chicken and potatoes cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved potatoes. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated with the seasoning.
3. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Next, spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet or place them in a large baking dish. Once arranged, lay the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
4. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the chicken breasts. Then, sprinkle the remaining minced garlic and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Season with a little more salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake:
Place your baking dish or sheet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (check to ensure the internal temperature is 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you want a golden topping, switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve:
Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your delicious garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes bake!
This dish is quick, easy, and satisfies everyone at the table. Perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s best to thaw it first. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Make sure it reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when baked.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the potatoes seem dry.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and season the chicken in advance. Store everything in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, assemble it in your baking dish and bake as instructed. Note that cooking time may vary slightly with chilled ingredients.
