There's nothing better than a one-pan meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect comfort food—crispy golden potatoes, tender seasoned chicken, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce that ties it all together.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but didn't feel like washing a sink full of dishes. Now, it's a go-to for busy weeknights, and my family loves it just as much as I do!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This dish is packed with crispy textures, rich flavors, and a creamy parmesan sauce that keeps you coming back for more.

First, it’s a true one-pan wonder—less cleanup, fewer dishes, and a faster cooking process. Everything cooks in the same skillet, allowing all those delicious flavors to blend beautifully.

It's a budget-friendly meal using simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Chicken and potatoes are always a winning combination, and the parmesan-garlic sauce elevates it to something special.

This dish is also perfect for meal prep. It stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.

And lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding picky kids or impressing dinner guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. The crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and garlicky parmesan goodness make it irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish lies in the balance of simple ingredients that come together perfectly. Here's what you'll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – I prefer thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.

Yukon Gold or baby potatoes – These potatoes have a buttery texture and crisp up beautifully in the skillet. You can also use red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.

Fresh garlic – Nothing beats the rich, aromatic flavor of freshly minced garlic. If you're in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh is best!

Parmesan cheese – A high-quality parmesan (like Parmigiano-Reggiano) will give you the best depth of flavor. Pre-grated cheese works, but freshly grated melts better into the sauce.

Heavy cream – This creates a creamy, luxurious sauce that coats every bite. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half will work, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

You'll also need a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (like a cast-iron pan) to get that perfect golden-brown sear on the chicken and potatoes.

How to Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

This dish comes together in a few easy steps, and the best part is—everything cooks in one pan!

1. Cook the potatoes

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for a little extra flavor. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sear the chicken

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and place the chicken thighs (or breasts) seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside with the potatoes.

3. Make the garlic parmesan sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the pan. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream and a bit of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up all those flavorful browned bits! Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

4. Combine everything

Return the crispy potatoes and seared chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Let it all simmer for another 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors.

5. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan for a finishing touch. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy the incredible combination of crispy, creamy, and garlicky goodness.

Storage Options

This dish stores well, making it perfect for leftovers!

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is! Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Swap the protein – Try using shrimp, sausage, or even tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Use different cheeses – Parmesan is classic, but a mix of cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella can create a fun new flavor.
Add veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add some color and extra nutrients.
Make it spicy – If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little kick.
Lighter option – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk to make it a bit healthier.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is bound to become a new favorite. Give it a try tonight and watch everyone ask for seconds!