Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet – Easy, Healthy One-Pan Meal

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A Savory, Whole30-Friendly Dinner That Hits the Spot

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that comes together in a single skillet—especially when it’s loaded with crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce. This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet checks every box for a wholesome, hearty, and flavorful dinner. Whether you’re following a Whole30, paleo, or gluten-free lifestyle—or just love bold comfort food—this dish brings the flavor with minimal fuss.

Made with simple ingredients and pantry staples, this one-pan wonder will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Skillet

  • Whole30- and paleo-approved: Clean ingredients with zero compromise on taste.
  • Balanced meal in one skillet: Protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
  • Rich in garlic and herbs: Bold, aromatic, and deeply savory.
  • Crispy potatoes + seared chicken: Texture + flavor perfection.
  • Minimal cleanup: Because one pan is all you need.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee

For the Potatoes:

  • 1½ lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp ghee or dairy-free butter substitute
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Par-Cook Potatoes

  • Toss halved potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Sauté in skillet over medium-high for 10–12 minutes until browned and nearly tender.
  • Remove and set aside.

2. Sear the Chicken

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and spices.
  • Sear 4–5 minutes per side in olive oil until golden and cooked through.
  • Remove and let rest.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

  • Reduce heat and add ghee or butter to the same pan.
  • Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes.

4. Combine and Finish

  • Return potatoes and chicken to the skillet.
  • Spoon sauce over everything.
  • Cover and let simmer 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • With a side salad or steamed greens
  • Over cauliflower rice or mashed sweet potatoes
  • As part of a meal prep bowl with avocado and tomatoes
  • With a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing for extra richness

🥦 Easy Add-Ins and Swaps

  • Add spinach or kale: Toss into the pan in the last 2 minutes.
  • Try sweet potatoes: For a lower glycemic option.
  • Use bone-in chicken: For even more flavor (adjust cook time).
  • Add mushrooms or zucchini: Sauté with garlic for extra veg.
  • Make it spicy: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the butter.

📦 Storage and Meal Prep

  • Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (potatoes may soften slightly).
  • Reheat: On stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave.

📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g

🧠 Expert Tips for Success

  • Use a cast iron skillet for the crispiest potatoes.
  • Cook in batches if pan is crowded to prevent steaming.
  • Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Don’t burn the garlic—add it once the heat drops.
  • Deglaze if needed with a splash of broth or lemon juice.

❓ FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken?
Yes—add it during the final simmer to warm through.

Q2: What’s the best potato to use?
Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes for crisp texture and flavor.

Q3: Can I use regular butter?
Yes—if not following Whole30 or dairy-free.

Q4: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbs.

Q5: Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely—rosemary, sage, or dill all work well.

✅ Conclusion: The Skillet You’ll Crave All Year Long

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is more than just a one-pan meal—it’s a foolproof, flavor-packed dish that satisfies comfort food cravings while staying clean and nourishing. With crispy potatoes, garlicky richness, and juicy chicken, it delivers bold flavor with very little effort.

No matter your diet or lifestyle, this meal works for everyone—and once you try it, you’ll want it on the menu every week.

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