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This cheesy garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes skillet is my go-to dinner when I need something cozy but do not want to fuss in the kitchen for hours. The combination of creamy garlic parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked potatoes all finished under a blanket of bubbling cheese always has my family diving in for seconds. It is the type of one-pan meal you crave on a chilly evening or just after a long busy day.
I started making this back when my oldest started school because it was fast enough for a weeknight but still felt like a treat. Now it is our Sunday movie night tradition and always brings smiles to the table.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts trimmed and diced: buy fresh chicken and check that it is firm and pink for best flavor
- Russet potatoes washed and scrubbed: choose smooth firm potatoes without green spots for best texture
- Extra virgin olive oil: adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all the flavors in the dish
- Garlic powder: gives a deep garlic punch without needing to mince cloves
- Smoked paprika: brings a subtle warmth and smoky note
- Butter: softens the chicken and adds a touch of richness
- Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs that complements both the chicken and potatoes
- Garlic parmesan sauce: this is the star ingredient. Look for a good quality store bought or homemade version packed with garlic flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and stretches for that perfect cheesy top
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite size chunks. In a large mixing bowl, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to coat them evenly. This distributes flavor before you start cooking.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket and set it to 400 degrees. Cook for twenty minutes, shaking at the halfway mark to make sure all sides get crispy and brown. Set them aside once they are tender with crispy edges.
- Season the Chicken:
- Add diced chicken to a bowl and toss with Italian seasoning. Coating the chicken this way helps the herbs stick and adds lots of flavor in every bite.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Melt the butter in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook while stirring often until it is cooked through and lightly golden. This step builds deep flavor as the chicken browns in the butter.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked potatoes and garlic parmesan sauce into the skillet. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce, then spread the mixture in an even layer.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Place the skillet in a hot oven at 400 degrees for about twenty to twenty five minutes. The cheese should be melted bubbly and golden by the end.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for five minutes. This helps the cheese layer set before you scoop into it. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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My favorite part of this dish is always the garlic parmesan sauce. I have tried both homemade and store bought versions and find that a little extra garlic never hurts. Once when my niece was visiting we let her help sprinkle the cheese on top and now she always asks to help when she visits — so many good memories in this one pan.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe bags. To reheat use a skillet on low heat with a splash of milk or extra sauce to keep everything creamy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap russet potatoes for red or baby potatoes if you like. No need to peel them and you still get great texture. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer a richer result. If you do not have smoked paprika try regular paprika or a dash of chili powder for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty skillet with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. A crusty baguette always disappears fast when served alongside to help soak up every bit of sauce. You can also add steamed broccoli or green beans directly into the skillet for an all in one meal.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Skillet dinners like this one are rooted in the American South where hearty meals come together in a single pan to feed families quickly and simply. The combination of chicken potatoes and cheese draws on classic comfort food traditions but garlic parmesan sauce gives it a flavor twist that feels extra special.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute other potatoes for russets?
Yes, baby potatoes or red potatoes work well. No peeling needed—just quarter them before cooking.
- → What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can oven roast the potatoes by spreading them on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
- → Why should the skillet rest after baking?
Resting allows the cheese and sauce to set, making serving easier and enhancing texture.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Pre-cooked chicken can be used; add it after the potatoes and sauce, then proceed with baking until hot and bubbly.
- → What kind of garlic parmesan sauce works best?
Both homemade and store-bought garlic parmesan sauces can be used—choose your favorite for the desired flavor profile.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, leftovers store well in the refrigerator for several days and reheat nicely for quick lunches or dinners.