This simple dish combines juicy chicken and tasty potatoes, all baked together with garlic and parmesan cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
And the best part? Cleanup is easy since everything bakes in one dish. I just love how the cheesy goodness gets everyone ready for seconds! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. You can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts if that’s what you have, but the cooking time might vary, so keep an eye on them!
Baby Potatoes: These mini spuds cook evenly and get tender quickly. If you don’t have baby potatoes, try using regular potatoes cut into small pieces. Sweet potatoes would also be a tasty swap!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that delicious flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but I recommend using enough to make up for the fresh taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice cheesy touch. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. Vegan options are also available that can provide a similar texture.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right can be tricky, but here are some tips. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry. This helps them get that crispy skin you want. When you’re rubbing them with seasonings, don’t hold back; generously coat every inch!
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- If the skin isn’t crispy enough, you can broil it for the last few minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Following these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake. You can enjoy a wonderful meal in about an hour! Just let your oven do the magic while you relax.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your chicken and potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss your halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, some freshly ground black pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Make sure the potatoes are well-coated!
3. Arrange the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a baking dish or an ovenproof skillet. This will be the base of your bake.
4. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels—that helps them get crispy! Rub the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper all over the chicken thighs.
5. Combine Chicken and Potatoes:
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up right on top of the seasoned potatoes in your baking dish. Make sure everything looks good and ready to bake!
6. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both the chicken and potatoes. This will give it that cheesy, delicious flavor we’re all craving!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), the skin is golden and crispy, and the potatoes are soft and tender.
8. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want an extra crispy topping, you can turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes to brown the cheese just a bit more. Just watch it to make sure it doesn’t burn!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and, if you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy every bite of your easy garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes bake!
FAQ: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Bake
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that boneless chicken thighs may cook faster, so check for doneness a little earlier—around 30-35 minutes should suffice. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Baby Potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes on hand, regular potatoes will work just fine! Just cut them into smaller, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. You could also try using sweet potatoes for a unique flavor twist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers can be added along with the potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for an even cook, and adjust flavors as needed with a little extra seasoning.
