Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: The Perfect One-Pan Dinner for Beginners

Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated, and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe proves just that. When I first started cooking, I always looked for meals that were easy, delicious, and required minimal cleanup. This recipe quickly became a favorite because it delivers restaurant-quality flavors with little effort.

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For beginners, this dish is a fantastic introduction to one-pan cooking, where everything bakes together on a single sheet pan. The result? Juicy, well-seasoned chicken and crispy, garlicky potatoes infused with Parmesan cheese and Italian spices. Not only is it simple and time-efficient, but it also requires basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to. Plus, it’s easy to customize and store for later, making it perfect for busy schedules.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
• 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

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken: If you prefer, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor. Just adjust the baking time to ensure thorough cooking.
• Potatoes: Feel free to substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste or even use russet potatoes, cut into small cubes.
• Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works well.
• Cheese: For a sharper flavor, swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a golden-brown finish.
• In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Rub olive oil over each chicken breast and coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

• In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the potatoes.

4. Assemble on the Baking Sheet

• Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on one side of the baking sheet.
• Spread the potatoes evenly on the other side, making sure they are in a single layer to ensure crispy edges.

5. Bake the Dish

• Roast for 25-30 minutes in the preheated oven.
• Halfway through cooking, flip the potatoes to ensure even browning.
• Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part.

6. Optional Broiling for Extra Flavor

• In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes.
• Switch your oven to broil and let the dish crisp up for a golden crust. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Check If Chicken is Cooked Through

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
• If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest part of the chicken—it should be white with no pink inside and the juices should run clear.

How to Get Crispy Potatoes

• Spread the potatoes in a single layer to allow them to crisp up. Overcrowding the pan will cause steaming instead of roasting.
• Halfway through baking, flip the potatoes to ensure an even golden-brown color.

What to Do if Chicken Browns Too Quickly

• If the chicken is browning too fast but is not yet cooked inside, cover it loosely with foil for the rest of the cooking time.

Efficient Meal Prep Tips

• Marinate the chicken in the seasoning a few hours ahead for deeper flavor.
• Cut the potatoes in advance and store them in a bowl of water in the fridge to prevent browning.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can enhance it with simple side dishes:

Complementary Side Dishes

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition.
• Side Salad: A light, fresh arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
• Rice or Quinoa: If you want to add a grain, a small side of brown rice, white rice, or quinoa can complete the meal.

Best Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic mayo-based sauce for extra richness.
• Honey Mustard: Adds a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken.
• Yogurt Herb Dip: A mix of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months, but the potatoes are best eaten fresh.
• Reheating:
  • In the oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep the chicken moist.
  • In the microwave: Use a damp paper towel over the chicken to prevent drying.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is an excellent introduction to one-pan cooking. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for beginners looking to build confidence in the kitchen. The minimal prep and cleanup make it a great option for busy weeknights, while the rich garlic-Parmesan seasoning ensures every bite is satisfying.

If you try this recipe, share your experience! Did you customize it? Add any sides? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!