Easy Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect balance of juicy chicken and tender potatoes, all cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that creates an irresistible aroma and taste. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests on a casual dinner night, this dish delivers big on flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it great for busy weeknights.
• Balanced Flavor: The garlic butter blend perfectly enhances both chicken and potatoes without overpowering them.
• All-in-One Meal: Protein and starch cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes to satisfy hunger fast.
• Family Friendly: Crowd-pleasing flavors that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a comforting and delicious dish. Each ingredient enhances the taste, texture, or color to make your Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes shine.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless for quicker cooking and juicy texture.
• Baby potatoes: Small potatoes roast evenly and soak up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor that’s impossible to resist.
• Butter: The key to creating a rich, luscious sauce that coats the chicken and potatoes perfectly.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and subtle herbaceous note.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens the overall flavor and balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients together.
• Olive oil: Helps in browning the chicken and adds a subtle fruity note.

Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Feel free to get creative with different ingredients or cooking methods!

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or paprika to the butter sauce for some heat.
• Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor twist.
• Veggie Addition: Toss in green beans or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
• Chicken Swap: Use bone-in chicken pieces or turkey breast for different textures and flavors.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Potatoes

Start by rinsing the baby potatoes and cutting any larger ones in half so they cook evenly. Pat the chicken dry and season it generously with salt and pepper to build flavor foundation.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will infuse the butter with wonderful garlic essence, which is the cornerstone of this dish.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and almost cooked through. This locks in juices and adds a beautiful color to the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Push the chicken to one side of the skillet and add the potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Mix the chicken and potatoes together in the garlic butter sauce. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley on top to brighten the flavors and presentation. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

• Room Temperature Chicken: Let chicken sit outside the fridge for 15 minutes to cook evenly.
• High-Quality Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning better.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give chicken and potatoes some space to brown nicely and avoid steaming.
• Use a Lid: Cover the skillet when cooking potatoes to speed up the softening process.
• Lemon Juice Last: Add lemon right before serving to keep its freshness sharp and vibrant.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a pop of green and fresh aroma, brightening up the dish both visually and flavor-wise. A few lemon wedges on the side also work wonderfully to add a citrusy touch.

Side Dishes

Serve this easy Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For heartier meals, a side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls complements it beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate on a rustic wooden board for a farmhouse feel or use a shallow white dish to highlight the golden colors of the chicken and potatoes. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or toasted pine nuts on top can also add visual interest and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days. This helps keep the chicken moist and the potatoes flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Cool completely before placing in freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps keep the potatoes soft.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh baby potatoes are preferred for this recipe because they roast and absorb the garlic butter better, but small frozen potato cubes can be used in a pinch—just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes reheats well and keeps flavors intact, making it a great option for preparing lunches or dinners in advance.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out faster than thighs.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil to maintain the richness without dairy.

What wine pairs well with Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the buttery garlic sauce and juicy chicken nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe brings comforting, delicious flavors to your table with speed and simplicity. It’s an absolute winner when you want something hearty yet fuss-free. I encourage you to try it out and make it your go-to weeknight dinner that never disappoints.

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