Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner recipe, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet! This dish is packed with tender chicken, crispy golden potatoes, and a rich, savory garlic butter sauce that will have you scraping the skillet for more. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze.

Stay with us through the entire article to discover not only how to cook this incredible meal but also some tips on perfecting your technique, substitutions, and creative serving suggestions. Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

What is Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a simple, comforting meal that combines the juicy, flavorful goodness of pan-seared chicken with crispy potatoes, all drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It's the perfect one-pan dish for busy weeknights, yet it's also fancy enough to serve to guests. The key to this dish lies in perfectly balancing the rich, garlicky butter sauce with the savory taste of golden-brown chicken and potatoes.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are the essential elements that will come together to create the perfect blend of flavors in this recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, but recommended for brightness)

These ingredients are simple and straightforward, but when combined, they create a satisfying meal bursting with flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is its versatility. Whether you're dealing with dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up, here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

1. Chicken Alternatives: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Bone-in or skin-on chicken thighs will also work, though you may need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Potato Variations: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work just as well as baby potatoes. You can even substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter, healthier option.
3. Dairy-Free Option: If you're avoiding dairy, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like margarine or use more olive oil instead.
4. Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add depth to the dish. If you don’t have them, you can use Italian seasoning or a pinch of dried oregano as substitutes.
5. Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots to the skillet. They’ll roast up beautifully alongside the chicken and potatoes.
6. Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

These substitutions and variations allow you to make the recipe your own, adapting it to your preferences or what you have on hand.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this amazing dish? Let’s break it down step by step to ensure that your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley for garnish. If your chicken breasts are large, consider slicing them in half horizontally for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Brown the Potatoes

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the baby potatoes in a single layer, cut side down. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant (but not browned). Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice (if using), and a little more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Potatoes

Return the chicken and potatoes to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is now ready to serve!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to steer clear of when making Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet:

1. Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding will steam the ingredients instead of giving them that delicious crispy texture. Make sure to cook the chicken and potatoes in batches if needed.
2. Undercooking the Chicken: Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so only cook it until fragrant. If it browns too much, it can become bitter.
4. Skipping the Lemon Juice: While optional, a splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the butter, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To truly make this dish stand out, presentation is key. After all, we eat with our eyes first! Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

• Family Style: Serve the chicken and potatoes directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. Simply set the skillet in the center of the table and let everyone dig in.
• On a Platter: For a more formal presentation, transfer the chicken and potatoes to a large platter, and drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with more fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
• Accompaniments: Pair this dish with a light green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

• Color Contrast: Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a splash of green color, which contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown chicken and potatoes.
• Lemon Garnish: Add lemon slices or wedges around the edges of the skillet for an extra pop of color and freshness.
• Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a cast iron skillet, this dish looks especially appealing served straight from it. The skillet retains heat, keeping the dish warm at the table.

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Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure that your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet turns out perfectly:

1. Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and achieve a better sear.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Crispy Potatoes: To get the potatoes extra crispy, make sure they’re dry before adding them to the skillet and don’t move them too much while they’re cooking.
4. Garlic Butter Balance: Adjust the amount of garlic and butter to your personal preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Simply cook when you're ready to serve.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
A: Yes, you can add veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots to the skillet. Just make sure they’re added during the cooking process so they have time to cook through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy texture of the potatoes.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy, golden potatoes with tender, juicy chicken in a savory garlic butter sauce. The best part? It all comes together in one skillet, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Try out the substitutions and variations to keep things fresh, and don't forget to serve it with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Now that you have all the steps, tips, and tricks, it's time to head to the kitchen and give this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet a try! Enjoy!

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