This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet brings together juicy bites of chicken, tender golden potatoes, and an irresistible garlicky sauce—all in one pan! It’s hearty, comforting, and delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss, making it a perfect weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single skillet, which means less mess and more flavor-packed bites for you!
- Garlic Butter Magic: The dreamy combination of garlic, vegan butter, and pan juices transforms humble chicken and potatoes into something crave-worthy.
- Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is the definition of comfort food—filling enough to stand alone, yet light enough to savor on any night.
- Effortlessly Adaptable: The Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet welcomes tasty twists, so you can easily tailor it to fit your household’s preferences or what’s in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the real heroes—each one has a role in building layers of flavor and texture in your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet. Don’t skip on the fresh garlic or parsley—they help this skillet dinner truly sing!
- Olive Oil: Kicks off the skillet with classic richness and helps brown the potatoes to golden perfection.
- Baby Potatoes: Their tender bite-size pieces soak up every bit of buttery sauce—choose a medley if you love pops of color.
- Water: A splash helps steam the potatoes, turning them delightfully fork-tender in no time.
- Vegan Butter: Delivers that ultra-creamy, luscious garlic butter sauce without a hint of dairy (but you can swap for regular butter if you prefer).
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into hearty cubes, they cook quickly and stay deliciously juicy.
- Garlic: Six generous cloves—don’t be shy! Freshly minced is a must for maximum aroma and flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: This herb blend adds subtle depth and a savory, herby background.
- Kosher Salt: Adds savory backbone and draws out all the natural flavors (divided for potatoes and chicken).
- Black Pepper: For balanced heat and that peppery zing.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful stirred in at the end brightens everything with freshness and color.
Variations
One of the best parts about a dish like this? It adapts to just about any craving, dietary need, or grocery store surprise. Tweak your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet however you like—no rules, just fantastic flavor!
- Dairy Butter Swap: If you’re not dairy-free, simply use classic butter for its sweet cream richness.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in quick-cooking favorites like broccoli, green beans, or even sliced bell peppers for a one-pan full meal.
- Crank Up the Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic—spicy lovers, this one’s for you!
- Make It Cheesy: Finish with freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino just before serving for a melty, savory boost.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Potatoes
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scatter the cut baby potatoes (with that first scoop of salt) into the sizzling oil, and let them toast for about 5 minutes. This step gives the potatoes that gorgeous golden crust—a little patience here adds big flavor.
Step 2: Steam Until Tender
Add a splash of water, then cover the skillet. Lower the heat and let the potatoes steam for another five to ten minutes. This ensures they turn meltingly soft in the center while keeping that lovely outer crispness. Scoop them out gently and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken & Make the Garlic Butter
Back in the skillet, melt the vegan butter and dial the heat back up. Add your chicken pieces, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, plus the rest of the salt and pepper. Keep things moving and cook for 7 minutes—the chicken should be golden on the outside, juicy in the middle, and bathed in garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return those toasty potatoes to the skillet and give everything a gentle toss. Let it all mingle for another minute or two over the heat, so the flavors soak into every bite. Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for bursts of color and brightness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Take your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet straight to the table while it’s piping hot, and watch it disappear—you won’t believe how quickly everyone will ask for seconds!
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
- Sear for Flavor: Let the potatoes sit undisturbed while browning—this develops a crisp, caramelized surface you’ll absolutely love.
- Garlic Timing: Add the garlic right as you add the chicken to avoid burning—the last thing you want is bitter garlic in your buttery sauce!
- Chicken Chop: Cut chicken pieces as evenly as possible so everything cooks at the same speed and stays fabulously juicy.
- Parsley Pop: Stir in fresh parsley at the end—never too early—to preserve its vivid color and bright, herby flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Garnishes
A final flourish of extra chopped parsley or thinly sliced chives adds fresh color and an appealing aroma right before serving. Feeling cheesy? A sprinkle of grated Parmesan transforms each bite into a tiny celebration of flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet plays so well with simple sides: a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or sautéed spinach are all wonderful companions. For a heartier meal, try warm, crusty bread to sop up every drop of that garlicky sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring the skillet straight to the table for a rustic, family-style vibe, or plate it in shallow bowls with a sprig of parsley for an elegant touch. For dinner parties, serve individual portions with lemon wedges—it makes each serving feel special and bright.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it’s cooled before storing so the potatoes and chicken stay as fresh as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to three months—just keep in mind that the potatoes may soften a bit in texture, but all of the garlicky flavor will still shine through. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen things up if needed. You can also microwave individual servings until piping hot—just cover to help retain moisture.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They’re extra juicy and flavorful—just cut them into similar-sized pieces and cook them through as directed.
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How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through?
Pierce a potato piece with a fork toward the end of the steaming step—if it slides in easily, they’re ready! They should be tender inside but still hold their shape for tossing in the skillet.
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Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all the chopping ahead, and even cook the potatoes in advance. Rewarm everything gently before serving, and finish with parsley to bring back that fresh, vibrant note.
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What can I use instead of vegan butter?
If you don’t need the recipe to be dairy-free, regular unsalted butter is a direct swap. For another dairy-free option, try a good-quality olive oil for a different—but still delicious—flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort food with a twist, it’s time to let Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet work its magic in your kitchen. Whether you stick with the classics or add your own touch, this skillet guarantees happy faces and satisfied appetites. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Tender chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, paired with crispy baby potatoes, make this dish a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 pound Baby Potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/4 cup Water
- 4 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
- 1 1/2 – 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
For Potatoes:
For Chicken:
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add water, cover, and cook until tender. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Melt butter in the skillet, increase heat to medium. Add chicken, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is done.
- Combine: Return potatoes to the pan. Stir in parsley and warm through. Remove from heat and serve.
Notes
- Not Dairy Free – Use dairy butter instead of vegan butter.
- More Veggies – Try adding broccoli or green beans.
- Make it Spicy – Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Make it Cheesy – Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat to 165°F before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
