Lu-Ann Simon November 22, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm meal simmering on the stove, inviting you to savor its rich aromas and vibrant colors. Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is one of those delightful dishes that brings warmth to the kitchen and a satisfying smile to your face. Ideal for a family dinner or a cozy evening with friends, this recipe combines tender chicken breasts with hearty potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a skillet.

Reasons to Adore Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

You’re sure to embrace this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet for many reasons:

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavorful Comfort: The rich garlic butter blend elevates simple ingredients to new heights.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, it suits any occasion.
Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy this hearty, satisfying meal.

Gather These Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Crafting your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet requires just a handful of ingredients, all working together to create a flavorful experience. Feel free to swap in turkey bacon for a lighter touch if you prefer a smoky flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These wholesome ingredients come together to offer a deliciously satisfying plate that feels like home.

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Creating your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a straightforward process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Here’s how to bring this dish to life:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble and become fragrant.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, enjoying the delightful aroma that fills the air.
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika, enhancing their flavor.
Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, their exterior beautifully caramelized.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, giving it a moment to rest.
Add the halved baby potatoes to the skillet and cover, cooking for about 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and can be pierced easily with a fork.
Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together to combine the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 45 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 480 (estimate).

Plan Ahead for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Preparing ahead can save you time and make mealtime even more enjoyable. You can season the chicken in advance, letting it marinate in the spices for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, creating a deeper flavor. The potatoes can also be halved earlier in the day, making the cooking process quicker when it’s time to eat. Simply cover everything well and refrigerate until ready to prepare.

Storing and Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Leftovers can be a delightful treat. Store any remaining Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing the cooked dish for up to three months. For reheating, place the skillet over low heat to gently warm it up, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. A freshness cue is to look for the chicken remaining tender and the potatoes warming through without becoming mushy.

Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

One of the best parts about this dish is how wonderfully it pairs with other elements on your table. Consider serving it with:

A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette
Steamed seasonal vegetables for a pop of color
Crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce
Creamy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb side
A simple fruit medley for a refreshing dessert

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

The beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet lies in its versatility. Here are a few delightful variations to keep your taste buds excited:

Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: Toss in some green beans or bell peppers during the cooking process for added nutrition and texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or use smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a bit of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a different twist on this comforting dish.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets for Best Results

To truly master your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet, keep these expert tips in mind:

Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps create a nice sear.
Space the chicken breasts apart in the skillet; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of browning.
Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
Trust your nose; when the garlic is fragrant, you’re ready to move to the next step.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet FAQs

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a different protein.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are gluten-free; just ensure any broth or additional seasonings are gluten-free.
What can I use instead of baby potatoes?
You can substitute with regular potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even cauliflower for a low-carb version.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Certainly! Season the chicken and chop the potatoes ahead of time to save time at dinner.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal for up to three months. Thaw before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. With its tender chicken and golden potatoes enveloped in a savory garlic butter sauce, every bite feels like a warm embrace. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and invite the coziness of this delightful recipe into your home soon! Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts and hearty potatoes in a garlic butter sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove chicken and set aside to rest.
Add halved baby potatoes to the skillet, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender.
Return chicken to the skillet and stir everything together.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.