Garlic Butter Chicken & Potato Bake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish that brings the entire family together, and this Garlic Butter Chicken & Potato Bake does exactly that. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or a leisurely weekend meal, it combines tender, juicy chicken with golden, crispy potatoes, all infused with a rich garlic butter flavor. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, anticipating a hearty, flavorful meal.

This recipe is inspired by classic home-cooked traditions where a single dish could satisfy multiple cravings at once—protein, starch, and a hint of indulgence—all in one pan. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy families, while the depth of flavor ensures it feels special enough for guests. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction without requiring hours in the kitchen, striking the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1.5 pounds (about 700 g) baby potatoes, halved

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with a teaspoon of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your chicken and potatoes bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. This aromatic mixture will coat both the chicken and potatoes, giving them a rich and savory flavor.

3. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps the butter and seasonings adhere better and ensures a golden, slightly crispy surface. Place the chicken in a separate bowl and pour half of the garlic butter mixture over it. Toss the chicken to coat evenly, then set aside for a few minutes to marinate while you prepare the potatoes.

4. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with the remaining garlic butter mixture and the olive oil. Make sure each potato is evenly coated. The butter will help the potatoes roast to a golden brown while the garlic infuses deep flavor.

5. Arrange Chicken and Potatoes in Baking Dish

Place the coated potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish, forming a base layer. Nestle the chicken pieces on top of the potatoes, making sure they are spaced evenly to allow even cooking. For an extra touch of flavor, spoon a little of the remaining garlic butter over the top of the chicken.

6. Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender. Halfway through baking, you can stir the potatoes gently and baste the chicken with any juices that have collected in the pan. This ensures both the chicken and potatoes are moist and flavorful.

7. Optional Topping and Broiling

If you love a cheesy, golden crust, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking. For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

8. Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation, or plate the chicken and potatoes individually for a more formal touch.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

• Even-sized potatoes: Cut the potatoes into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Baby potatoes work perfectly for this recipe, but if using larger potatoes, cut them into bite-sized chunks.

• Chicken options: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly, while thighs provide slightly more juiciness and flavor. Either works well depending on your preference.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and marinate the chicken a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

• One-pan meal: This dish is naturally a one-pan wonder, reducing cleanup. You can even add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli halfway through baking for added variety.

• Avoid dryness: To prevent the chicken from drying out, ensure you don’t overbake. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to check doneness.

Variations to Try

1. Lemon Garlic Chicken & Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the garlic butter mixture for a fresh, tangy twist.

2. Herb-Crusted Chicken & Potatoes: Mix breadcrumbs with the garlic butter and sprinkle over the chicken before baking for a crunchy crust.

3. Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake: Pour ½ cup of heavy cream over the potatoes and chicken before baking to create a rich, creamy sauce.

4. Spicy Garlic Chicken: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a mild smoky heat.

5. Mediterranean Style: Add sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.

Why This Recipe Works

Garlic Butter Chicken & Potato Bake is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s such a hit:

• Flavor layering: Garlic, herbs, and butter work together to create a deep, savory taste that is both rich and comforting.

• Textural contrast: Crispy roasted potatoes paired with tender, juicy chicken make each bite satisfying.

• Minimal prep, maximum reward: This is a relatively simple recipe that produces complex flavors without a lot of effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

• Family-friendly: With no complicated ingredients and a familiar flavor profile, it appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the garlic butter.

• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or green beans complement the dish beautifully.

• Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the buttery sauce.

• Wine pairing (non-alcoholic option): Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a citrusy iced tea enhances the flavors without alcohol.

Make It a Meal Prep Favorite

This dish is excellent for meal prep:

• Bake the chicken and potatoes as instructed and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain crispiness.

• Portion out with a side of steamed vegetables or a small salad for a balanced meal.

Meal prepping with this recipe saves time and ensures you have a hearty, flavorful dish ready whenever you need it.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen potatoes can be used in this recipe, though there are a few important tips to ensure the best results. First, it’s recommended to partially thaw the potatoes before baking. This helps remove excess moisture that could make the potatoes soggy instead of crispy. Once thawed, pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel to remove any residual water. Toss them with the garlic butter mixture and olive oil as usual. Keep in mind that frozen potatoes may need a few extra minutes in the oven compared to fresh ones, as the frozen texture can slightly slow the roasting process. Check for tenderness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should slide in easily when fully cooked. Using frozen potatoes is a convenient option for busy weeknights, and with proper preparation, they can be just as delicious as fresh ones.

Can this recipe be made with bone-in chicken?

Absolutely. Bone-in chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, adds incredible flavor to the dish, as the bones help retain moisture and create a richer, more savory taste. However, bone-in chicken will require a longer baking time compared to boneless pieces. Depending on the size of the pieces, you may need to add 10–15 minutes or more to the cooking time. The most reliable way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Bone-in cuts can also create a more rustic presentation, making the dish feel hearty and homey. Keep in mind that larger pieces may need to be arranged more carefully in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Chicken drying out is a common concern, but it’s easily avoided with a few simple techniques. Coating the chicken generously with the garlic butter mixture helps lock in moisture while infusing the meat with flavor. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts is another effective method, as thighs naturally retain more juice and remain tender during baking. Monitoring the oven temperature carefully is key; baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures the chicken cooks evenly without becoming dry. Basting the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking can also help maintain moisture and add extra richness to the flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish even more hearty and nutritious. Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, or firmer vegetables such as bell peppers, can be added at the beginning of baking since they take longer to soften. Softer vegetables, like zucchini or cherry tomatoes, should be added halfway through cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. Toss the vegetables with a small amount of garlic butter to ensure they roast beautifully alongside the chicken and potatoes. Adding vegetables not only enhances flavor but also creates a more balanced, all-in-one meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Garlic Butter Chicken & Potato Bake Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A cozy, comforting one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Tender chicken and golden roasted potatoes are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with herbs for maximum flavor. This simple yet satisfying dish is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.

• In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

• Pat chicken dry and coat with half of the garlic butter mixture. Set aside to marinate briefly.

• Toss halved potatoes with olive oil and the remaining garlic butter mixture.

• Arrange potatoes in the baking dish, forming a base layer, and place chicken on top. Spoon any remaining garlic butter over chicken.

• Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and potatoes are tender. Stir potatoes halfway through for even cooking.

• Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan over chicken and potatoes in the last 5 minutes, broil 2–3 minutes for a golden crust.

• Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

• Cut potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

• Can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.

• Marinate chicken ahead of time for deeper flavor.

• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes

Michelle Davis