Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Are you looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family? If so, the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is your answer! This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, golden potatoes, and aromatic herbs all infused with rich garlic butter. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also packs a flavor punch that will make you feel like a gourmet chef—even on a busy Tuesday night.
Why is the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet a Perfect Choice for Young Professionals?
For young professionals juggling work, social lives, and personal interests, meal prep can often feel daunting. This garlic butter chicken and potato skillet is the perfect solution, requiring only about 30 minutes from start to finish. By combining ingredients into one skillet, you'll minimize cleanup time—allowing more moments to unwind after a hectic day.
Plus, this recipe utilizes everyday ingredients, making it budget-friendly while still being flavorful and satisfying. Not to mention, it’s versatile! You can easily customize the herbs or switch out the chicken for your favorite protein. So why not treat yourself to a delightful, hassle-free meal that fits your busy lifestyle? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
When you're looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet delivers just that! Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal that will leave everyone wanting seconds.
- 1 ½ pounds small gold potatoes, quartered (about ½” thick)
- 4 tablespoons ghee, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced, plus more for garnish
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1” pieces
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
These ingredients come together for a hearty dinner, perfect for a busy weeknight. If you're interested in some helpful cooking tips or variations, check out Cooking Light for more inspiration!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Cooking can feel daunting, especially after a long day at work, but Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. Let's walk through the preparation step by step to ensure that your meal turns out delicious and full of flavor!
Soften the potatoes
Start your culinary journey by softening the small gold potatoes. This is an essential step that can save you time later on. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your quartered potatoes with about ¼ cup of water. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes or until the potatoes are barely fork-tender. This pre-cooking method will help them cook evenly in the skillet and achieve that perfectly crispy exterior.
Sauté the potatoes until golden brown
With your potatoes ready, it’s time to bring out their flavor! Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of ghee. Feel that sizzle? That means it’s time to add those potatoes! Sprinkle them with a generous amount of sea salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for about 2 minutes, then give them a good stir. Continue sautéing for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and tender. This caramelization is key for a rich, savory taste.
Add garlic and herbs to the potatoes
During the last minute of cooking, push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add 4 cloves of minced garlic, along with 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh rosemary and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves. Don’t forget to toss in 2 tablespoons of minced parsley! Stir everything together and let the garlic become fragrant. After about a minute, remove the potatoes and herbs from the skillet and set aside in a bowl. This aromatic mixture will be crucial for elevating the dish!
Cook the seasoned chicken
Now it's chicken time! Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee to the same skillet. While the ghee melts, season 1 ½ pounds of 1-inch pieces of boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Once the skillet is sizzling, add your seasoned chicken. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes, then stir it to ensure thorough cooking until it’s golden brown all over—about 4-5 minutes.
Combine chicken and potatoes, and garnish
Finally, it’s time to bring your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet together! Gently toss the cooked chicken with the sautéed potatoes. For the finishing touch, garnish the dish with additional fresh herbs. Serve it hot and enjoy a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day!
With these steps, you’ll have a vibrant and delightful dish ready to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy the aromas of rosemary and garlic as you savor every bite!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Make it spicy with chili flakes
If you enjoy a little heat, adding chili flakes can elevate your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet into a fiery delight. Just sprinkle in a teaspoon or two during cooking for a warm kick that complements the savory garlic and buttery flavors. It’s a simple change that transforms the dish and is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Add seasonal vegetables for variation
Consider incorporating seasonal vegetables to give your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet a fresh twist. Veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus lend vibrant colors and nutritional benefits, making the dish even heartier. Sauté them alongside the potatoes or chicken for a well-rounded meal. Exploring different vegetables is not only fun but a great way to enjoy the flavors of each season!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
When crafting your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, remember that preparation is key! For perfectly tender potatoes, a quick microwave steam helps reduce stovetop cooking time. Just pop them in with a splash of water for 5-6 minutes before browning in the skillet.
Don’t shy away from seasoning! Generously use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper on both the chicken and potatoes for that extra flavor punch. If you're a fan of herbs, feel free to boost the rosemary and thyme for an aromatic twist.
For an easy cleanup, use a heavy skillet that distributes heat evenly. Enjoy your deliciously simple dish!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
When it comes to serving your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, the options are delightfully versatile! For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will perfectly balance the richness of the dish.
You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a nutritional boost. If you love a touch of comfort, a side of crusty bread is ideal for soaking up that savory garlic butter sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of extra parsley for color and freshness, making your plate irresistibly tempting. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet is a breeze. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, which includes chopping the potatoes and mincing the garlic and herbs.
Cooking Time
The actual cooking takes about 25 minutes. First, you’ll microwave the potatoes, then sauté them before cooking the juicy chicken to perfection.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet!
For more tips on cooking with seasonal ingredients, check out this great resource! It’s a fantastic way to elevate your meals while enjoying what's fresh.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Calories
Each serving of this delicious garlic butter chicken and potato skillet packs a satisfying 316 calories, making it a great option for a balanced meal without overindulgence.
Protein
With 24 grams of protein, this dish provides a substantial boost to help keep you energized throughout your day. It's perfect for fueling a busy lifestyle.
Sodium
Featuring 109mg of sodium, this skillet recipe is lightly seasoned while keeping your sodium intake in check. It's an ideal choice if you're watching your salt consumption.
Feel free to explore more about the health benefits of garlic and rosemary on authoritative sites like Healthline for added inspiration!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner cut, chicken breasts work just fine in this garlic butter chicken and potato skillet. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.
What side dishes pair well with this skillet?
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving a light green salad, some steamed broccoli, or a side of roasted vegetables. A fluffy quinoa or wild rice dish also complements the flavors of the skillet beautifully.
Is it possible to meal prep this recipe?
Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can batch-cook the chicken and potatoes, portion them into containers, and store them in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat and enjoy a quick, delicious meal during the week!
Feel free to explore more about meal prepping or chicken recipes on cooking blogs like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit!
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
In conclusion, this garlic butter chicken and potato skillet is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines savory flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's both satisfying and quick to prepare. Once you try this recipe, it might just become a family favorite. Enjoy the simplicity!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet: Easy Weeknight Delight
Equipment
- large heavy skillet
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1.5 pounds small gold potatoes, quartered about ½” thick
Ghee and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons ghee divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced plus more for garnish
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1” pieces
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- To soften the potatoes before cooking on the stovetop, place them in a microwave safe bowl with about ¼ cup of water and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes or until barely fork tender.
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium high heat and add 2 tablespoons of the ghee. Once hot, add the potatoes and sprinkle all over with sea salt and pepper. Cook about 2 minutes, stir, then cook another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to evenly brown, until golden brown and tender.
- During the last minute of cooking the potatoes, push them to the side and add the garlic, rosemary, thyme and parsley. Stir in with the potatoes and cook until potatoes are done. Once done, remove the potatoes, garlic and herbs to a bowl and set aside.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika, then add to the skillet. Cook over med-high to high heat undisturbed for about 3 minutes or until crisp and brown on one side, then stir and continue to cook until crisp and golden brown all over, about 4-5 minutes.
- Toss the chicken with the potatoes and top with additional fresh herbs. Serve right away and enjoy!
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