If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that brings everyone to the table in record time, you absolutely have to try this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet. Each bite is packed with juicy chicken, buttery golden potatoes, and a savory blend of garlic and fresh herbs. This one-pan wonder is outrageously simple to put together, but delivers a complex flavor profile that makes it feel like you’ve pulled off something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this skillet is pure comfort and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is how every single ingredient plays a starring role—there’s not an ounce of filler here! Gather these kitchen essentials, and you’ll be amazed at how each element brings out the best in this simple but seriously flavorful dish.

Chicken Breast: Cut into strips for quick and even cooking, chicken becomes perfectly tender and soaks up all those garlicky, buttery flavors.
Baby Yellow Potatoes: Quartered to get crispy edges and fluffy middles; their slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with garlic and herbs.
Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps achieve that perfect golden crust as you sauté.
Butter: The heart of this skillet! It melts into a rich, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite.
Garlic Cloves: Minced and sautéed, garlic infuses the entire dish with its signature aroma and warmth.
Fresh Thyme: Brings earthy, slightly minty notes that brighten up the rich flavors.
Fresh Rosemary: Just a touch gives each bite a fragrant, woodsy accent that’s irresistible.
Fresh Oregano: Lends a peppery, almost citrusy lift that balances the butteriness.
Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper: Essential for elevating and sharpening all the flavors.
Crushed Red Chili Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a little kick that instantly wakes everything up—use as much or as little as you like.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce: The marinade base, adding umami depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Hot Sauce (Sriracha): Gives the marinade a hint of heat and tang—completely customizable.
Fresh Cracked Pepper (for marinade): Layers in more punchy spice.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by tossing your chicken strips in a mix of low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, plenty of pepper, and a hit of your favorite hot sauce. This quick marinade gives the chicken a savory kick and helps it stay juicy, plus it infuses the meat with flavor while you prep the rest of the dish. Let it sit for a few minutes while you move on to the potatoes—no need to overthink it or wait a long time!

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

With the chicken soaking up that marinade, drop the quartered baby potatoes into salted boiling water for about 8 minutes. This little trick jumpstarts the cooking process, meaning you’ll get crispy, golden potatoes without the frustration of raw middles. Don’t skip this step—it’s the secret to potatoes that are soft inside but have a golden, buttery edge once they hit the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes

Heat a tablespoon each of olive oil and butter in a roomy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter’s melted and foamy, add your drained potatoes. Sauté for 4 minutes, give them a good stir or toss, then cook for another 4-5 minutes until they’re bronzed and fork-tender. Those golden edges you see? They’re potato perfection! Transfer the potatoes to a plate so they don’t overcook.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

With the same skillet still nice and hot, drop in the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Lay out those marinated chicken strips in a single layer—keep the leftover marinade, you’ll need it! Sprinkle the minced garlic and, if you’re in the mood, some chili flakes right into the skillet too. Sear each side for about a minute so the chicken is glossy and a little caramelized, adjusting the timing to your preferred doneness. The smell at this stage is out of this world!

Step 5: Finish with Marinade and Herbs

Pour that reserved marinade straight into the skillet with the golden chicken. Let it simmer for a minute until it bubbles and thickens slightly, then stir in your chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano. This is when Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet transforms from great to unforgettable—the herbs make everything come alive. Gently add the sautéed potatoes back, tossing everything together just until heated through. Taste and season with a sprinkle of salt and cracked pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the skillet from the heat and get ready to dig in. You can finish with extra chili flakes, more fresh herbs, or even a shower of parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet straight from the pan for a cozy, family-style dinner everyone will be excited about.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet

Garnishes

Top off each serving with a bit more fresh rosemary or oregano for a green pop of color and aroma. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes is lovely for those who like some heat, and a little grated parmesan adds extra richness. Garnishing not only makes your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet look gorgeous, it adds that special finishing touch everyone notices.

Side Dishes

This dish is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some steamed green beans is perfect. Fresh bread or warm dinner rolls are also a hit for sopping up the extra buttery garlic sauce at the bottom of your skillet—don’t leave a drop behind!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try serving your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet family-style right out of the pan for rustic charm. Or, spoon the chicken and potatoes onto a platter, sprinkle generously with herbs and cheese, and serve alongside colorful grilled vegetables for an eye-catching feast. You can even portion the skillet into individual bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation on busy weeknights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, honestly!), transfer them to an airtight container once cooled and pop them in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, so tomorrow’s lunch will be just as delicious, if not better. Eat within three days for best quality.

Freezing

Want to save some for another week? Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet freezes well. Spoon the cooled chicken and potatoes into a freezer-safe container or bag. Try to keep out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn, and label with the date. Store for up to two months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftover skillet on the stovetop in a nonstick pan over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, though the potatoes may lose just a bit of their crispness. Either way, the flavors will still make your kitchen smell amazing!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and even more flavorful, and they stay super juicy. Just cut them into strips like the breasts and follow the same directions. You may need to adjust the cooking time by a minute or two longer.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work in a pinch! Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh, and sprinkle them in with the marinade or when adding the remaining butter to the pan so they have time to bloom in the heat.

Do I have to parboil the potatoes?

Parboiling is definitely recommended to ensure your potatoes are perfectly tender and golden. Skipping this step often leads to potatoes that are still a bit firm after sautéing. If you’re short on time, try microwaving the quartered potatoes for a few minutes with a splash of water instead!

What’s the best way to make this dish spicy?

If you love heat, add extra hot sauce to the marinade or double up on the crushed red chili flakes in the skillet. You can even finish with a drizzle of chili oil at the end to make your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet extra fiery.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms are great additions. Slice and sauté them in the pan after the potatoes but before the chicken for a more veggie-packed version. Just don’t overcrowd the skillet, or things won’t brown as nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is one of those feel-good recipes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and flexible enough to fit your cravings or pantry ingredients. Give it a try soon—you may just find it becomes your new go-to for busy weeknights and cozy dinners alike!