As I stood in my kitchen, a symphony of sizzling garlic filled the air, evoking memories of family dinners and laughter. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is my go-to solution for those hectic weeknights when cooking feels like a mountain to climb. Not only does it promise a hearty, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes, but it also requires minimal clean-up—perfect for when time is short and appetites are big! With tender chicken and crispy potatoes coated in savory garlic and buttery goodness, you can savor every delicious bite without the guilt. Plus, this dish is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to cater to various dietary preferences with ease. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners from mundane to memorable?
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity: With just one pan and 30 minutes, you’ll have a full meal ready to go, making it the ultimate quick weeknight dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic and butter create a mouthwatering richness that elevates the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Versatile: Adapt this recipe to your dietary needs—swap chicken for tofu, or use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist!
Perfect for Sharing: This dish is great for family meals or simplified entertaining, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Minimal Clean-Up: Fewer dishes mean you can enjoy your meal and stay stress-free. For a fresh side, consider pairing it with a light salad, or try my Salsa Verde Chicken for another effortless dinner option!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Strips – A low-sodium variety keeps the dish healthy and flavorful.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor without excessive salt; coconut aminos can be a gluten-free alternative.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dish; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil you prefer.
For the Potatoes
• Potatoes – Yukon gold or red potatoes work wonderfully; for lower-carb options, sweet potatoes or cauliflower are great substitutes.
• Butter – Brings a rich flavor; can be swapped with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
For the Flavor
• Garlic – Fresh cloves are ideal for maximum flavor; minced garlic is a suitable alternative when in a pinch.
• Red Chili Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick of heat; adjust to your taste, or omit for a milder flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme) – Sprinkle on top for a burst of freshness; any favorite herbs can be used as a substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Adds depth to the dish; nutritional yeast provides a vegan-friendly alternative.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating your chicken strips in a mixing bowl. Pour in low-sodium soy sauce and add a splash of olive oil, then season with pepper and hot sauce if desired. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Let this sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes
In a pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add your chopped potatoes. Parboil them for about 8 minutes until they are just tender but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes well and set them aside, allowing them to steam dry slightly, which will help them crisp up later in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a combination of olive oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the drained parboiled potatoes. Sauté them for about 8–9 minutes, stirring occasionally until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy edges. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and keep them warm.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet with the remaining butter, add the marinated chicken strips. Cook them on each side for about 1 minute, allowing them to brown nicely. The chicken should be sizzling and turn a lovely golden color, indicating they are cooking evenly. Ensure the skillet remains hot for an optimal sear that enhances the flavor.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Chili Flakes
Once the chicken is browned, stir in minced garlic and red chili pepper flakes, allowing them to infuse their flavors into the chicken. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant and begins to soften. Then, add the reserved marinade to the skillet, ensuring to coat the chicken thoroughly, and let it simmer until fully absorbed.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to reintroduce the sautéed potatoes back into the skillet with the chicken. Gently stir everything together, allowing the potatoes to heat through and absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce. This should take about 2–3 minutes, ensuring the dish is warmed evenly and packed with flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, serve your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet immediately. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of chili flakes or parmesan cheese if desired. This delightful dish is sure to bring warmth to your table, inviting everyone to dig in!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure the dish is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Separate portions with parchment paper for easy thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Avoid Clumping: When freezing, ensure that the chicken and potatoes are spread out initially to prevent clumping together, allowing for better portion control later on.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken strips for thighs to enjoy a juicier, more succulent bite, elevating every mouthful.
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Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a natural sweetness that adds another layer of flavor goodness.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegan butter to create a completely plant-based version that’s equally satisfying.
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Extra Veggies: Add seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to bring extra nutrients and vibrant colors—plus, a delightful crunch!
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Heat Level: For a spicier take, toss in more red chili flakes or drizzle some hot sauce into the skillet, giving your dish an exciting kick!
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Cheesy Flavor: Swap out parmesan cheese for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a rich, cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of parsley or thyme to create unique flavor profiles that tantalize your palate.
If you’re looking for other flavorful options to explore, try my Butter Garlic Crab that features that same delightful buttery essence or perhaps enjoy an updated twist on classics with these Peanut Butter Jelly Bars!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
A delightful pairing can truly elevate your mealtime experience, turning a simple dish into a feast for the senses.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the skillet, offering a bright contrast. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added crunch.
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Garlic Bread: Nutty, toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is a perfect side to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s hard to resist its warm, buttery charm!
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Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a vibrant pop of color and a healthy balance to the meal. The slight crunch complements the tender chicken and potatoes beautifully.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a creamy, crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken. Its creaminess offers a delightful contrast to the dish’s richness.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs makes a nutritious side that enhances the overall meal while soaking up the flavors of garlic butter.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc serves as a refreshing accompaniment, its acidity balancing the buttery richness of the dish.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse rounds off your meal with a touch of sweetness, providing a satisfying ending after the savory main course.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
- Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes—this ensures a deeper flavor infusion and tender texture.
- Heat Matters: Make sure your skillet is hot before cooking the chicken; a good sear enhances flavor, preventing a rubbery texture.
- Watch the Salt: Be mindful of sodium levels. Taste the dish as you cook, especially if you’re using regular soy sauce, to avoid over-salting.
- Veggie Boost: Consider adding colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrition and vibrancy in your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet.
- Potato Prep: Parboil the potatoes just enough—overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes; you want them tender yet firm for that crispy finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, parboil the potatoes 1 day ahead, then refrigerate them after they cool to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepped potatoes until crispy and follow with the marinated chicken, cooking until done. This method saves precious time on hectic weeknights while ensuring your dish remains just as delicious and satisfying. Embrace these make-ahead options to enjoy a comforting meal that’s quick and easy to finish!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using low-sodium chicken strips for this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet. This helps keep the dish healthy without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer a juicier option, chicken thighs can be used instead.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the dish is cooled before sealing it to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the chicken and potato skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For easy portioning, separate the servings with parchment paper before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my potatoes turn out mushy?
If your potatoes become mushy, it’s likely they were overcooked during the parboiling step. Aim for parboiling them for about 8 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Keeping them firm will help achieve that crispy finish later!
Are there any dietary substitutes I can use?
Certainly! For a gluten-free option, you can replace low-sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos. For a dairy-free version, simply swap out the butter with vegan butter. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a lower-carb alternative.
How can I tell if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
When selecting your garlic, look for firm cloves with no dark spots. Choose potatoes that are smooth, free of sprouts, and with minimal blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet: Quick & Cozy Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the chicken strips in a mixing bowl with soy sauce and olive oil, season and let sit for 20 minutes.
- Parboil chopped potatoes in salted boiling water for 8 minutes, then drain.
- Sauté the parboiled potatoes in a skillet with olive oil and butter until golden brown.
- Cook the marinated chicken in the same skillet until browned on each side.
- Add minced garlic and chili flakes, cook until fragrant, then add reserved marinade.
- Combine sautéed potatoes with the chicken in the skillet and heat through.
- Garnish with herbs and serve immediately.
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