Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Dinner

Introduction

Imagine a dinner that’s both comforting and impressive, made with everyday ingredients that are easily accessible. The Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Dinner is just that – a dish that combines the richness of garlic butter, the tenderness of chicken, and the heartiness of potatoes, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it’s easy to make and presents beautifully. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy families or individuals who want a delicious meal without the fuss.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple and straightforward preparation process, this recipe is perfect for beginners or experienced cooks who want to whip up a quick and delicious meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this recipe yields impressive results, with a beautifully browned chicken and crispy potatoes that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the ingredients. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch wedges and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the potato wedges and cook for 5 minutes, until they start to brown.
4. Step 4: Add the chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can affect the cooking time and texture of the chicken and potatoes.
• Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and real butter, to get the best flavor out of this recipe.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to add your own twist to this recipe.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect doneness, make sure to cook the chicken and potatoes over medium-high heat. This will help to brown the chicken and crisp up the potatoes. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Crunch Factor

To achieve a crispy exterior on the potatoes, make sure to not stir them too much during cooking. This will help to form a nice crust on the outside, while keeping the inside tender. You can also try broiling the potatoes for a few minutes to get an extra crispy exterior.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cast-iron skillet to cook this recipe, as it retains heat well and can be used to achieve a nice crust on the chicken and potatoes.
• Don’t discard the garlic butter sauce that’s left in the skillet – use it as a dipping sauce for the chicken and potatoes, or serve it on the side as a gravy.
• Try adding some aromatics, such as onions or bell peppers, to the skillet during cooking to add extra flavor to the dish.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the chicken and potatoes in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Consider freezing the cooked chicken and potatoes for up to 2 months – simply thaw and reheat when needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This recipe is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holidays. Consider packaging the cooked chicken and potatoes in a decorative tin or container, along with some crusty bread or a side salad. You can also add some fresh herbs or edible flowers to make the gift more visually appealing.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the garlic butter sauce for extra flavor.
• Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Add some spice to the recipe by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos into the garlic butter sauce.

Troubleshooting

• If the chicken is not cooking evenly, try cutting it into smaller pieces or adjusting the heat to ensure that it’s cooked through.
• If the potatoes are not browning, try increasing the heat or using a different type of potato that’s more prone to browning.
• If the garlic butter sauce is too thick, try adding a little bit of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

FAQs

• Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Dinner is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. With its rich and savory flavors, tender chicken, and crispy potatoes, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a special occasion chef, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures that it has to offer!