Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes : Easy Dinner

Posted on April 22, 2025 · By Lyndy

Looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that hits every craving in one pan? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is everything you want in a quick, hearty dinner. Crispy roasted potatoes, tender, juicy chicken, and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce make this the kind of meal that earns repeat requests. And the best part? It’s all baked on one pan, making it perfect for fast dinner recipes, busy weeknights, or lazy Sunday evenings.

This dish is the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience, full of flavor but low on fuss. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, this parmesan chicken and potatoes recipe checks every box.

What Makes This Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes a Weeknight Hero?

There’s a reason sheet pan meals like this one have become household staples. They’re simple to assemble, require minimal cleanup, and cook everything in one go. This particular recipe stands out because it layers bold flavor—thanks to garlic, butter, herbs, and Parmesan—over juicy chicken thighs and crispy golden potatoes.

Why it’s the go-to for pan dinners:

  • One-pan cleanup – no pile of pots and pans after dinner
  • Ready in under an hour – ideal for busy schedules
  • Customizable with your favorite herbs and cheeses
  • Satisfying enough to stand alone or pair with a light salad or bread

Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe serves 4 and uses easy-to-find ingredients.

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes

his mix creates bold flavor with minimal ingredients—classic of all great chicken meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make This Easy Pan Dinner

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Season and Arrange

Toss the potatoes with half of the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread them on one side of the pan. Coat the chicken with the remaining oil and seasoning, and place on the other side.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the chicken and potatoes bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, then slowly stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Once the sheet pan is done baking, spoon the creamy garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.

Best Chicken Cuts to Use for Flavor and Juiciness

For best results with garlic parmesan chicken, choose:

  • Chicken thighs: More flavorful and forgiving when baked
  • Chicken breasts: Leaner but can dry out—use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
  • Chicken tenders: Great for kids and faster cook time

Bone-in chicken can be used, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Fast, Efficient Sheet Pan Meals

Keep your prep smooth and cleanup minimal with:

  • A large sheet pan (rimmed)
  • Mixing bowls for seasoning
  • A saucepan for the creamy garlic sauce
  • Whisk for smooth sauces
  • Tongs or spatula for flipping and serving

With these tools, you’ll knock out one of the tastiest sheet pan meals in your rotation.

Tips for Crispy Potatoes and Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Use small, waxy potatoes like baby reds or golds—they roast beautifully
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—spread ingredients in a single layer
  • Flip halfway through for even browning
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
  • Add sauce after baking to preserve the crispy texture of the roast

This balance ensures golden potatoes and rich, tender chicken every time.

How This Meal Fits into Fast Dinner Recipes and Pan Dinners

This recipe takes around 45 minutes total—with only 10 minutes of hands-on prep. It’s perfect for:

  • Weeknights when you want something hearty but fast
  • Minimalist meal plans with basic ingredients
  • Balanced dinners with carbs, protein, and fats
  • Comfort food that still feels fresh and satisfying

If you’re seeking fast dinner recipes that don’t compromise on taste, this is a top-tier choice.

Flavor Variations: How to Make It Spicy, Herby, or Cheesy

Take your parmesan chicken up a notch with these variations:

  • Add chopped rosemary or thyme for extra herbal depth
  • Use crushed red pepper in the sauce for heat
  • Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite
  • Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone during the last 5 minutes of baking
  • Mix in baby spinach or kale to sneak in some greens

This versatility makes it a favorite among customizable pan dinners.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is rich and satisfying but still plays well with a side:

  • Steamed green beans or asparagus
  • Garlic bread or crusty rolls
  • Simple arugula or Caesar salad
  • Sauteed zucchini or mushrooms
  • A crisp cucumber-tomato salad

Keep it simple to let the garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes shine.


Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Easy Chicken Meals

This recipe is meal prep-friendly and reheats beautifully.

  • Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days
  • Reheat in the oven or skillet for best texture
  • Microwave for convenience, but potatoes may soften
  • Make the sauce ahead and refrigerate—it reheats well
  • Freeze cooked chicken separately, but potatoes are best fresh

Perfect for weekly chicken meals you can rely on.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Chicken and Potatoes Together

  • Crowding the pan – everything will steam instead of roast
  • Skipping seasoning – don’t forget to season both chicken and potatoes
  • Overbaking chicken – use a thermometer for accuracy
  • Pouring sauce too early – wait until after baking
  • Using pre-shredded cheese – it won’t melt as smoothly

Follow these and your parmesan chicken and potatoes will be perfect every time.

FAQs About Parmesan Chicken and Sheet Pan Dinners

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using a plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese substitute.

Is this gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour in the sauce for cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes—try broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. Just be sure to cut them small enough to cook evenly.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use two sheet pans and rotate halfway through for even roasting.

Conclusion & Call to Action: Add This Chicken Dinner to Your Weekly Meal Plan

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food meets convenience meal. With golden roasted potatoes, juicy seasoned chicken, and a rich creamy sauce to tie it all together, it’s everything you want in a weeknight winner.

Whether you’re new to sheet pan meals or a seasoned home cook, this one deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Try it tonight and see why it’s one of the best fast dinner recipes around. Don’t forget to share with friends and subscribe for more easy, flavor-packed chicken meals!

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes : Easy Dinner


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 45

Description

Looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that hits every craving in one pan? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe is everything you want in a quick, hearty dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Season and Arrange

Toss the potatoes with half of the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread them on one side of the pan. Coat the chicken with the remaining oil and seasoning, and place on the other side.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the chicken and potatoes bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, then slowly stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Once the sheet pan is done baking, spoon the creamy garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken and potatoes. Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • Use small, waxy potatoes like baby reds or golds—they roast beautifully
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—spread ingredients in a single layer
  • Flip halfway through for even browning
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
  • Add sauce after baking to preserve the crispy texture of the roast
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 35
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 40g

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

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