This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are brought to life with buttery garlic goodness. Yum!
I love how easy it is to make this dish, all in one skillet. Plus, the smell of garlic sizzling in butter? It’s like a hug for your kitchen! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe shines with sliced chicken breast for its lean protein. If you want a different flavor, try using chicken thighs, which are juicier. For a vegetarian option, substitute with firm tofu or tempeh, cut into strips.
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their creamy texture. If they aren’t available, try other small potatoes like fingerlings or even diced regular potatoes. Sweet potatoes can add a lovely taste if you want a twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the salt level. If you prefer a healthier option, use olive oil for cooking, or try coconut oil for a hint of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for this dish, bringing wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but use sparingly as it’s more concentrated.
Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice brightens the dish wonderfully. If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar or a bit of lemon zest works as a good alternative to add acidity.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, but here are some easy steps to ensure it’s tender and juicy.
- Heat the skillet well with your olive oil before adding the chicken.
- Season the chicken strips evenly with spices to enhance flavor.
- Cook the chicken without overcrowding the skillet, allowing it to brown nicely on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer – it should read 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- If you’re unsure, cut one piece open: it should be white and juices should run clear.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional for added flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the potatoes, followed by about 10 minutes for the chicken. A few more minutes will be needed to combine everything and finalize the dish. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the halved or quartered baby potatoes in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor. Cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them occasionally to ensure they brown nicely and become tender. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. After the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring gently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. This step will fill your kitchen with a delicious garlic aroma!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now it’s time to season your sliced chicken breast! Sprinkle paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Add the chicken strips into the skillet with the garlic butter and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and golden brown. Make sure it’s no longer pink inside!
4. Combine Everything:
Once the chicken is cooked through, gently return the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Mix everything together so that the potatoes are coated in the garlic butter. If you like a little zest, squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the top, adding a delicious bright flavor.
5. Heat and Serve:
Cook everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes to make sure everything is heated through. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely finish. Your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is ready to enjoy!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Breast with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even swap for turkey or pork. If using a different protein, adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring it’s fully cooked through before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Baby Potatoes?
No worries! You can substitute with regular potatoes; just cut them into small, even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Alternatively, you could use other vegetables like carrots or green beans, adjusting the cooking time according to their respective doneness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture as you heat.
Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance. Cook them as instructed, then cool and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, you can reheat everything together in a skillet, adding a little butter or oil to enhance the flavor.
