Easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet – One Pan, 30-Minute Meal

There’s nothing quite like a hearty, home-cooked meal that comes together in one pan with minimal effort. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy chicken cooked with golden, crispy potatoes, all coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. The combination of flavors is simple yet incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but delicious.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something warm and filling but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It turned out to be one of those accidental favorites, the kind you make once and then keep coming back to over and over again. The best part? It uses basic pantry ingredients, so you don’t have to run to the store for anything fancy.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just want an easy, no-fuss dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s got crispy-edged potatoes, tender chicken, and a buttery, garlicky sauce that coats everything in pure deliciousness. And since it all cooks in one pan, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash, which is always a win!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a fast, homemade meal.
• One-pan meal – Less mess, fewer dishes, and a straightforward cooking process.
• Incredibly flavorful – The garlic butter sauce infuses everything with rich, savory goodness.
• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
• Family-friendly – A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
• Customizable – Easily switch up the herbs, add vegetables, or adjust the spice level to your preference.

Health Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients!

• Protein-rich – Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, helping with muscle repair and keeping you full longer.
• Good carbs – Potatoes provide energy and fiber while being naturally gluten-free.
• Healthy fats – The butter adds richness, while olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Garlic and herbs – Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health.
• Low in processed ingredients – This dish is made with whole, natural foods, making it a healthier option than takeout.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 15g

Ingredients List

For the Chicken and Potatoes

• 1 ½ lbs (650g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 ½ lbs (650g) baby yellow potatoes, quartered
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a paleo-friendly option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Sriracha recommended, optional for spice lovers)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips, soy sauce, olive oil, hot sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate while you prepare the potatoes.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

To ensure the potatoes cook quickly and evenly in the skillet, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the quartered baby potatoes and cook for 8 minutes until they’re slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the parboiled potatoes in a single layer. Let them cook for 4 minutes without stirring so they get golden and crispy. Stir and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fork-tender and browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, lay the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Add garlic and red chili flakes if using. Sear the chicken for 1 minute per side, letting it brown.

Step 5: Add the Marinade and Herbs

Pour in the remaining marinade and stir well. Add the chopped fresh herbs and mix everything together. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the sautéed potatoes to the skillet and toss everything together to coat in the buttery, garlicky sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well mixed and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with extra fresh herbs, chili flakes, or grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve

• On its own – This dish is hearty enough to be a complete meal.
• With a side salad – A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Over rice or quinoa – If you want to add extra carbs, serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa.
• With warm bread – Perfect for soaking up the garlicky butter sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverages: A refreshing lemonade, iced tea, or a light sparkling water with lemon.
• Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple cucumber tomato salad.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a simple recipe, a few small mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Skipping the Parboiling Step for Potatoes
   • If you don’t parboil the potatoes first, they may take too long to cook in the skillet, resulting in either undercooked or overly crispy exteriors while still being raw inside. Boiling them for about 8 minutes before sautéing ensures they cook evenly.
2. Overcrowding the Pan
   • If the pan is too crowded, the chicken and potatoes will steam instead of sear, leading to a soggy texture instead of crispy edges. Cook in batches if necessary to allow for proper browning.
3. Not Drying the Chicken Before Cooking
   • If the chicken is wet from excess marinade, it won’t develop that golden sear. Pat it dry with a paper towel before adding it to the skillet.
4. Overcooking the Chicken
   • Chicken breast cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it dry and tough. Searing for 1-2 minutes per side and then finishing it with the sauce will keep it tender and juicy.
5. Not Adjusting Seasoning at the End
   • Since soy sauce and butter already add saltiness, always taste before adding extra salt. It’s easier to adjust than to fix an overly salty dish.
6. Using Too Much Butter Too Early
   • While butter is essential for flavor, adding it all at once can cause it to burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Adding some at the end keeps the dish rich without a burnt taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

Want to take this dish from good to amazing? Follow these pro tips for the best results:

1. Use Fresh Herbs for Maximum Flavor
   • While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano bring out the best flavors in the garlic butter sauce.
2. Cut the Chicken Evenly
   • Uniformly sized chicken strips ensure even cooking. If some pieces are too thick, they may take longer to cook, resulting in uneven texture.
3. Golden Crispy Potatoes = No Stirring Too Soon
   • To get crispy, golden brown potatoes, let them sit undisturbed in the pan for at least 4 minutes per side before flipping. Stirring too soon prevents proper browning.
4. Deglaze the Pan for Extra Flavor
   • After cooking the chicken, add a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice to the skillet to loosen the flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. This makes the sauce even richer.
5. Let the Dish Rest Before Serving
   • After cooking, let the dish sit for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the chicken retain its juices and allows the flavors to meld together.
6. Add Parmesan for an Extra Flavor Boost
   • A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish enhances the buttery garlic flavor and adds a hint of umami.
7. Turn Up the Heat for Extra Crispiness
   • If you love extra crispy potatoes and chicken, broil the dish for 2 minutes in the oven after cooking. This creates a delicious golden crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative as they stay juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take a bit longer to cook than breast meat.

2. What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Baby yellow potatoes or Yukon Golds are ideal because they are naturally creamy inside and crisp up well on the outside. However, red potatoes or fingerling potatoes also work great.

3. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply replace the butter with extra olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The dish will still be delicious and flavorful.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance:

• Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
• Parboil the potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little water to prevent drying out.
• Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes can become mushy when thawed.

6. Can I make this spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra crushed red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for more heat.

7. What can I serve with this dish?

This meal is satisfying on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread to soak up the sauce.

8. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook the potatoes in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Then, cook the chicken separately in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate easy, one-pan meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The combination of crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce makes it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing your family, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Plus, it’s customizable, meaning you can switch up the herbs, add extra veggies, or spice it up to match your preferences.

Now it’s time to get cooking! Try this recipe today and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments or snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest or Instagram—I can’t wait to see your creations.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!

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