Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

There’s something deeply satisfying about a one-skillet meal—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a perfectly balanced dish all in one pan. I still remember the first time I made Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet on a busy weeknight. I needed something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. This dish checked all the boxes.

Whether you’re a beginner cook looking for an easy go-to meal or someone who loves bold, simple flavors, this recipe is for you. With tender chicken, crispy golden potatoes, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy, satisfying dinner.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Beginner-friendly: This recipe requires no fancy techniques—just a skillet and basic cooking steps.
• Minimal cleanup: Since everything is cooked in one pan, you won’t be left with a pile of dishes.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of garlic butter, fresh herbs, and golden-browned chicken ensures each bite is bursting with taste.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Quick and efficient: With only about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this is an ideal weeknight meal.

Ingredients and Preparation

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken: The protein base of this dish, chicken strips cook quickly and absorb the marinade well.
• Baby potatoes: These cook up tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, providing a satisfying texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the garlic-infused sauce.
• Garlic: The star flavor enhancer, making the dish aromatic and delicious.
• Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and potatoes without burning.
• Fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano: These herbs add a fragrant, earthy depth of flavor.
• Soy sauce: Used in the marinade to add a savory umami taste.
• Hot sauce: Brings a little kick (optional but recommended).
• Salt, pepper, and red chili flakes: Seasonings that balance out the dish.

Alternative Ingredients:

• Protein swap: Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Potato variation: Swap baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and healthier twist.
• Butter alternative: Use ghee or a dairy-free alternative like avocado oil for a lactose-free version.
• Herb flexibility: If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can work (use half the amount of fresh).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips with soy sauce, olive oil, hot sauce, and fresh cracked pepper. Let it marinate while you prepare the potatoes.

Step 2: Parboil the potatoes
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the quartered baby potatoes. Cook for about 8 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the drained potatoes and cook for about 4 minutes. Stir and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the chicken
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer, reserving the marinade for later. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sear the chicken for about 1 minute per side, ensuring a nice golden brown crust.

Step 5: Add flavor and combine
Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and stir with the chicken. Cook until the marinade thickens slightly. Add the sautéed potatoes back into the pan, sprinkle in fresh herbs, and mix everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately. For extra flavor, garnish with additional fresh herbs, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or even a light dusting of Parmesan cheese.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t skip the marinade: Even a short marination time infuses the chicken with great flavor.
• Parboiling the potatoes is key: This step helps them cook faster in the skillet and gives them that perfect golden crust.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet: If the chicken is too crowded, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use a meat thermometer: Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• For extra sauce: If you like more sauce, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine after cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Side dishes: Pair this meal with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans for extra nutrition.
• Sauces: Serve with a drizzle of lemon juice or a quick homemade garlic aioli.
• Bread pairing: Warm crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.
• Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to retain moisture.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a foolproof, beginner-friendly meal that delivers on both flavor and convenience, this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a must-try. It’s easy, comforting, and full of rich, buttery goodness. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments. What did you pair it with? Did you add your own twist? Share your experience—we’d love to hear!

FAQ About Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

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