Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner

This hearty garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes dish has become my weeknight salvation on busy days when I need something delicious but don't have time for elaborate cooking or cleanup. The combination of juicy chicken and crispy, cheese-laden potatoes creates a complete meal requiring just one pan.

I first created this recipe when hosting unexpected dinner guests with almost no preparation time. What started as a desperate kitchen experiment has since become one of my most requested meals when family visits.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: perfect for quick cooking and absorbing flavors
• Italian seasoning: creates a Mediterranean flavor profile without needing multiple spice jars
• Smoked paprika: adds subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish
• Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes: these varieties hold their shape well while getting crispy outside and creamy inside
• Fresh garlic: gives the dish its signature punch of flavor. Always use fresh rather than pre-minced for best results
• Parmesan cheese: creates a savory crust on both chicken and potatoes. Select a good quality aged variety for deeper flavor
• Olive oil: helps achieve the perfect golden exterior on both components

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F. This relatively high temperature is crucial for developing crispy textures on both the chicken and potatoes. While the oven heats, line your baking sheet with parchment paper which prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Prepare the Chicken:

Take time to thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for proper browning. Combine your Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl then rub chicken with olive oil before applying seasoning mixture. The oil helps the spices adhere and promotes browning.

Prepare the Potatoes:

Cut potatoes into consistently sized halves for even cooking. In a large bowl toss them with olive oil ensuring each piece is fully coated first before adding garlic, Parmesan, salt and pepper. This sequence prevents the cheese from clumping before covering the potatoes.

Assemble on the Pan:

Arrange the components strategically on your baking sheet. Place chicken on one side and potatoes on the other with some space between them. Ensure potatoes are cut side down initially for maximum browning and arrange in a single layer so they roast rather than steam.

Bake to Perfection:

Roast everything for 25 to 30 minutes total. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides. Check chicken with a meat thermometer looking for that magic 165°F internal temperature which indicates perfect doneness without drying out.

Optional Finishing Touch:

For an extra flavor boost sprinkle additional Parmesan over everything during the final 5 minutes and switch to broil setting. Watch carefully during this step as the difference between beautifully golden and burnt can happen quickly.

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I discovered the magic of smoked paprika in this recipe completely by accident when I ran out of regular paprika during cooking. My daughter declared it was "the best chicken ever" and now I never make it any other way. Sometimes kitchen mishaps lead to the most delicious discoveries.

Make Ahead Options

This dish works wonderfully for meal prep. You can season both the chicken and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This approach allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply while saving precious time during the dinner rush. Simply arrange on your baking sheet and cook when ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy free version replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast which provides a similar savory quality without the dairy. You might need to add a touch more salt to compensate for the missing cheese salinity. Chicken thighs can substitute for breasts if you prefer darker meat with more moisture and flavor. They might require an additional 5 minutes of cooking time depending on size.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal with additional vegetables consider adding broccoli or asparagus to the sheet pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes the perfect beverage pairing to complement the garlic and herb flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating avoid the microwave which can make chicken rubbery and potatoes soggy. Instead reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If you have an air fryer that works even better for restoring the original crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

To keep the chicken moist, pat it dry before seasoning, use olive oil, and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute Yukon Gold or red potatoes with russet, sweet potatoes, or any other firm variety that roasts well.

→ Is it possible to use bone-in chicken?

Bone-in chicken can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, green beans, or zucchini. Spread them with the potatoes for even roasting.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.