Name: Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes – One Skillet Wonder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings

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There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic butter wafting through the kitchen on a busy Tuesday evening. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe has become my go-to when I need dinner on the table fast but still want something that feels like a warm hug. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – tender chicken, golden potatoes, and that irresistible garlic butter sauce all come together in one skillet. What started as a desperate attempt to use up leftover chicken tenderloins has transformed into our family’s most-requested weeknight meal. In just 50 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dinner that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Matters

In our fast-paced world, finding a recipe that delivers both comfort and convenience is like striking gold. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes dish checks every box for busy families. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table without requiring hours of prep or a sink full of dishes. The combination of protein and starch in one skillet means you’re getting a complete meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about watching golden potatoes crisp up alongside perfectly seasoned chicken – it’s comfort food at its finest.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of one of those “what’s for dinner?” panic moments we all know too well. I had chicken tenderloins defrosting and a bag of baby potatoes staring at me from the counter. Instead of making two separate dishes, I decided to combine them in my trusty cast iron skillet. The result was pure magic – the chicken stayed juicy while the potatoes developed the most incredible crispy exterior.

Speaking of incredible one-skillet meals, you’ll also love our Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet and Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti Alfredo. For more inspiration on quick family dinners, check out these 15 One-Skillet Family Dinners and discover what other home cooks are doing with chicken tenderloin meat for fresh ideas.

Ingredients

Everything You Need for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts cut into strips – look for that pale pink color that promises tenderness) 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adds that deep umami flavor that makes everything taste better) 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus 1 more for the potatoes – use the good stuff for best flavor) 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, but it adds a subtle kick that wakes up the whole dish) ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground makes all the difference) ½ teaspoon garlic powder (because we’re doubling down on garlic goodness) ½ teaspoon onion powder (adds that savory depth) 1 pound baby gold potatoes (or substitute with red potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces) 2 tablespoons butter (the star of our garlic butter sauce) 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced – don’t you dare use the pre-minced stuff for this) 1 green onion, sliced (for that fresh pop of color and flavor) ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or make your own blend with dried basil, oregano, and thyme) Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, but it makes the dish look restaurant-worthy)

Ingredient Spotlight

Let’s talk about what makes each ingredient special in this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe. The soy sauce isn’t just for Asian dishes – it’s my secret weapon for adding depth to the chicken marinade without overpowering the other flavors. Those baby gold potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape beautifully when parboiled and develop the most gorgeous golden crust. Fresh garlic is absolutely non-negotiable here – it’s what transforms simple butter into that aromatic, mouth-watering sauce that ties everything together. The Italian seasoning brings all the flavors into harmony, while that splash of hot sauce (if you choose to use it) adds just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming young taste buds.

Timing

Quick Timing Guide for Busy Weeknights
Prep Time: 20 minutes (15% faster than similar skillet recipes) Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Active Time: 35 minutes (you can prep tomorrow’s lunch during the parboiling step) Serves: 4 generously (or 6 if you’re serving with a side salad)

Instructions

Step by step process of making Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes in a cast iron skillet — Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked chicken and crispy potatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results
Marinate the Chicken In a large bowl, combine chicken tenderloins with soy sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, hot sauce (if using), pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well and let it marinate while you prep the potatoes. My grandmother always said the secret to tender chicken is letting those flavors soak in, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Prepare the Potatoes Cut baby potatoes into quarters – aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add potatoes. Parboil for exactly 8 minutes until fork-tender but not falling apart. This step is crucial for getting crispy exteriors later! Get Those Potatoes Golden Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter in your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add drained potatoes and fry for about 8 minutes, turning gently with tongs (never a spatula – trust me on this). You want gorgeous golden edges that’ll make your mouth water. Sear the Chicken Remove potatoes and set aside. Add chicken strips to the same skillet, reserving that flavorful marinade. Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side – patience here gives you that beautiful golden crust that locks in all the juices. Build the Garlic Butter Magic Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until aromatic (about 2 minutes). Pour in any remaining marinade if you like extra flavor. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally – use a meat thermometer to be sure. Bring It All Together Return those beautiful golden potatoes to the skillet along with sliced green onions and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. The smell alone will have your family gathered around the kitchen!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes

Pro Tips from a Home Cook’s Kitchen
Don’t skip the parboiling step – it’s the secret to crispy-outside, fluffy-inside potatoes that won’t fall apart when you flip them. Use tongs, not a spatula for turning potatoes – they’re delicate after parboiling and a spatula will break them into pieces. Let the chicken sear undisturbed – resist the urge to move it around. That golden crust develops when proteins have time to properly caramelize. Keep your garlic moving once it hits the pan – garlic goes from fragrant to bitter in seconds, so stir constantly during those crucial 2 minutes. Save some marinade for extra flavor boost at the end – just make sure it gets heated through properly for food safety.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your family’s needs. For busy weeknight shortcuts, use pre-cut chicken strips from the store and small fingerling potatoes that cook faster. Kid-friendly version? Skip the hot sauce and add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for subtle sweetness. Mediterranean twist? Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano. For dairy-free families, substitute the butter with olive oil and add nutritional yeast for that rich, savory flavor. You can even make this gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce – the taste is virtually identical.

Leftover & Reuse Ideas

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes is a gift that keeps on giving! Chop everything up and turn it into the most incredible breakfast hash – just add a fried egg on top. Transform it into a hearty soup by adding chicken broth and vegetables. Use it as filling for quesadillas or wraps with some cheese and lettuce. The potatoes make fantastic potato salad when cooled and mixed with mayo and herbs. You can even repurpose it into a pasta dish by tossing with cooked noodles and a splash of cream. Nothing goes to waste in a smart kitchen!

Pairing Ideas

This hearty skillet meal pairs beautifully with fresh, light sides that balance the richness. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the butter perfectly. Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition. For beverages, try sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or even a refreshing cucumber mint water. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for sopping up any extra garlic butter sauce – because wasting that liquid gold should be illegal!

Serving Suggestions

Present this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes right in the cast iron skillet for that rustic, homestyle appeal. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and maybe a lemon wedge for color. Serve family-style with a large serving spoon so everyone can dig in. For special occasions, plate individually with the chicken fanned out and potatoes arranged alongside. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese takes it from everyday dinner to company-worthy in seconds. The key is keeping it simple and letting those gorgeous golden colors speak for themselves.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 4): Approximately 420 calories, 35g protein, 28g carbohydrates, 18g fat, 4g fiber, 580mg sodium. This recipe provides a good balance of lean protein from the chicken and complex carbohydrates from the potatoes. The olive oil and butter contribute healthy fats, while the garlic offers antioxidant properties. Baby potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake with Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes is overcooking the potatoes during parboiling – they should be tender but still hold their shape. Another pitfall is overcrowding the skillet, which leads to steaming instead of that beautiful golden searing we want. Don’t rush the chicken searing process; proper browning takes time but delivers incredible flavor. Burning the garlic is heartbreaking but easily avoided by keeping the heat at medium and stirring constantly. Finally, resist the urge to flip things too early – patience in the kitchen always pays off with better results!

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This dish freezes beautifully for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For meal prep, cook everything except the final assembly, then combine and reheat throughout the week for quick dinners.

FAQs

Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and parboil the potatoes up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator, then proceed with the skillet cooking when ready to serve.
Are Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes kid-friendly?: Yes! This recipe is very kid-friendly. Simply omit the hot sauce and adjust the garlic to your family’s preference. The mild flavors and familiar ingredients make it a hit with children.
Can I use different types of potatoes for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes?: Definitely! While baby gold potatoes work best, you can use red potatoes, fingerlings, or even russets cut into 1-inch pieces. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe gluten-free?: To make it gluten-free, simply substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes from sticking to the pan?: Make sure your skillet is properly preheated and use enough oil. Don’t move the chicken or potatoes too early – let them develop a proper sear first, then they’ll release easily.

Conclusion

Finished Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes served in a cast iron skillet with fresh parsley garnish — The perfect weeknight dinner: golden, crispy, and absolutely delicious

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes recipe proves that the best comfort food doesn’t require complicated techniques or expensive ingredients. With its perfect balance of crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and that irresistible garlic butter sauce, it’s destined to become a staple in your weeknight rotation. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the way it brings families together around the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting friends, this one-skillet wonder delivers every single time.

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Author: Unknown Author