Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs with Baby Potatoes: A Savory One-Pan Dinner

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs with Baby Potatoes is a simple, delicious one-pan meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. The chicken thighs are seasoned and roasted with garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a flavorful, crispy crust. Paired with tender baby potatoes seasoned with oregano and a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish is a savory delight with minimal cleanup. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of brightness that perfectly complements the rich flavors.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  2. Prepare the Potatoes: Halve the baby potatoes and set them aside in a bowl. These will cook alongside the chicken for a balanced, one-pan meal.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs

  1. Combine the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of each thigh. This will add flavor to the chicken and help create a beautiful crust.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers.
  2. Add Chicken Thighs: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the thighs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Prepare Parmesan Mixture

  1. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This infuses the oil with garlic flavor, which will enhance both the chicken and potatoes.
  2. Prepare Parmesan Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Set aside for topping the chicken before it goes in the oven.

Step 5: Season the Potatoes

  1. Season the Potatoes: In the bowl with the halved potatoes, add dried oregano, a pinch of salt and pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with the seasoning.

Step 6: Assemble and Roast

  1. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them between the seasoned potatoes.
  2. Top with Parmesan Mixture: Sprinkle the Parmesan and parsley mixture generously over the chicken thighs.
  3. Roast in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken and potatoes with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg

FAQ

1. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs?

  • Yes, bone-in thighs work well for this recipe. Increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I Add Other Vegetables?

  • Absolutely! Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli alongside the potatoes. Adjust the seasoning as desired, and ensure they’re cut small enough to cook in the same amount of time.

3. What If I Don’t Have an Oven-Safe Skillet?

  • You can transfer the seared chicken and seasoned potatoes to a baking sheet or oven-safe dish before roasting.

4. Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?

  • For a different flavor, try Pecorino Romano or a sharp cheddar. Keep in mind that these cheeses may alter the flavor slightly, but they will still add a delicious crust.

Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs with Potatoes

  1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture helps the chicken thighs brown evenly and develop a crispy crust.
  2. Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the skillet or baking dish has enough space for both the chicken and potatoes to roast evenly. If overcrowded, the dish may steam instead of roasting.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried oregano works great, fresh parsley or thyme as a garnish elevates the dish’s flavor and presentation.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, transfer the chicken and potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quicker option. For best flavor, avoid freezing as potatoes may change texture upon reheating.

Conclusion

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs with Baby Potatoes is a satisfying one-pan meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. With savory Parmesan, fragrant garlic, and tender roasted potatoes, this dish provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The addition of lemon wedges adds a fresh, zesty kick that perfectly complements the rich, cheesy crust.

Ideal for a quick dinner or a meal with friends, this recipe is versatile, packed with flavor, and visually appealing. Give this recipe a try for an unforgettable, restaurant-quality meal right at home! Enjoy each bite, and don’t forget to squeeze that lemon for an extra burst of brightness.