This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal! Juicy chicken and tender potatoes are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes everything taste amazing.
Honestly, the best part is how quick and easy it is to make. Just toss everything in the skillet and let it do its thing. And that buttery garlic smell? Oh, it’s heavenly! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want to save time, you can use precooked chicken or even tender chicken thighs for more flavor. Thighs tend to be juicier.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. However, you can swap them for Yukon golds for creaminess or red potatoes for a waxy texture. Each type will give a different but delicious outcome!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it lets you control the salt. You could substitute olive oil or even ghee for a different flavor profile, especially if you’re lactose intolerant.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too—just use about a teaspoon instead.
Thyme: Dried thyme is fine, but fresh thyme elevates the dish so much! If you don’t have thyme, try rosemary or oregano as alternatives.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth of flavor! If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can work, but it won’t have the smokiness.
How Can I Cook Potatoes So They’re Perfectly Tender and Crispy?
Cooking potatoes right is key to this dish. The goal is golden brown and tender potatoes that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Start with medium heat; this allows the potatoes to cook through without burning.
- Season them early with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme to infuse flavor.
- Stir them occasionally, around every 5 minutes, to ensure even cooking and browning.
- They should take about 15-20 minutes to be tender. Test by piercing with a fork!
Remember to remove them from the skillet before cooking the chicken to prevent overcooking or sogginess.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 4 large potatoes, cut into wedges
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30-35 minutes in total. This includes around 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook the potatoes and another 10-15 minutes for the chicken. Simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the potato wedges. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Once done, take the potatoes out of the skillet and set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and the rest of the thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute, until your kitchen smells amazing! Now, add the sliced chicken strips into the skillet. Season everything with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
3. Combine:
Once the chicken is ready, bring back the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to blend the flavors nicely. This step is where all the magic happens!
4. Serve:
Finally, garnish your delicious dish with some chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes – it’s a hearty meal perfect for any night!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work wonderfully, you can also use baby potatoes or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using smaller varieties, as they may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts with Other Proteins?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs or even turkey cutlets. If using pork or beef, make sure to cook them to their respective safe internal temperatures. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them!
What Can I Use Instead of Thyme?
If you don’t have thyme on hand, feel free to use herbs like oregano or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the quantities, as these herbs can have a stronger taste!
