Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes Flavorful Dinner Idea

Looking for a dinner that’s both easy and delicious? Try my Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes. This dish combines tender chicken thighs and creamy potatoes, all soaked in rich garlic butter. You’ll love how simple the steps are and how great it tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this meal will impress. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking with the ingredients and tips you need!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

To make Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes, you will need:

– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 5 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Substitutions for Key Ingredients

You can swap some ingredients for variety. Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. For a lighter dish, try olive oil instead of butter. You can use any fresh herbs you like, such as rosemary or oregano. If you don’t have baby potatoes, use regular potatoes cut into chunks. You can also use garlic powder if you are short on fresh garlic.

Nutritional Information

This dish serves four people. Each serving has about 400 calories. It has protein from chicken and carbs from potatoes. The butter adds fat, which gives flavor and richness. This meal is balanced with protein, carbs, and healthy fats. To make it healthier, serve with a side salad or steamed veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps for Chicken and Potatoes

First, gather all your ingredients. You will need chicken thighs, baby potatoes, unsalted butter, garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half. This helps them cook faster. Next, season your chicken thighs. Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika evenly on both sides. This step gives the chicken great flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Garlic Butter Mixture

Now, let’s make the garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic with three tablespoons of melted butter. Stir well to mix everything. The garlic will add a lot of taste to the dish. When you are ready, pour this mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the skillet. This will ensure every bite is full of flavor.

Final Cooking Instructions for Roasting

Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add three tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Once the butter is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Then flip the chicken and add the halved baby potatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over everything.

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are tender. For a crispy finish, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. When done, take it out and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Now it’s ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Searing Chicken Thighs Perfectly

Searing chicken thighs gives them great flavor. Start with a hot skillet. This helps the skin crisp up. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best taste. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin brown nicely. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper. Place the thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 7-8 minutes. Don’t rush this step. Let the skin get golden brown before flipping. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.

Tricks for Ensuring Tender Potatoes

For tender potatoes, use baby potatoes. Their small size cooks quickly and evenly. Halve the potatoes for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption. Add them to the skillet with the chicken. They will soak up all the garlic butter goodness. Make sure to season them with salt and pepper. This enhances their natural flavor. Roast them alongside the chicken for 25-30 minutes. If they seem firm, give them a few extra minutes. You want them soft and buttery.

Garnishing Ideas for Presentation

Presentation matters, even for a simple dish. Use fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Sprinkle it over the chicken and potatoes before serving. It brightens the plate and makes it look fresh. Lemon wedges are also great to serve on the side. They add freshness when squeezed over the dish. This gives a nice tang that balances the rich butter flavor. For a fun twist, try adding some lemon zest before serving. It gives an extra layer of freshness that people will love.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients or Seasonings

You can switch up flavors easily. Use rosemary instead of thyme for a pine-like note. Try lemon zest for a bright twist. If you want heat, add some red pepper flakes. You can also swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes. They add sweetness and make the dish unique.

Different Protein Options

Chicken thighs are great, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. For another option, try pork chops. They pair well with garlic butter too. If you want fish, salmon works well. Just adjust cooking times since fish cooks faster.

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Replace chicken with hearty veggies like mushrooms or eggplant. For a vegan version, swap butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Use plant-based chicken substitutes for a similar texture. Serve with chickpeas for protein and extra flavor.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your garlic butter chicken and potatoes fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freezing is a good option.

Reheating Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Reheat your meal in the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and potatoes in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until hot. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps the chicken crispy.

Freezing Tips and Guidelines

If you plan to freeze, wrap the chicken and potatoes tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the meal for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

You can tell your chicken is done by checking its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). At this point, it is safe to eat. You can also check the juices. They should run clear, not pink.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They will cook faster than thighs. Adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Make sure they also reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

What should I serve with garlic butter chicken & potatoes?

You can serve this dish with a green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of rice also pairs well with it. Adding lemon wedges adds a nice touch. This helps brighten the flavors of the dish. Enjoy your meal with your favorite bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce!

You learned how to make delicious garlic butter chicken and potatoes through easy steps. We explored key ingredients, helpful tips, and fun variations. You can also adapt the recipe to fit your needs. Remember to store any leftovers well to enjoy them later. Try this dish for a tasty meal that your family will love. Cooking can be fun and satisfying. Enjoy your time in the kitche