One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Dinner
There’s something magical about a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity—all in one pan. One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes is that kind of recipe. It’s the kind of dinner that makes your home smell incredible, requires minimal cleanup, and satisfies everyone at the table (even the picky eaters!).
I still remember the first time I made this dish on a chilly Tuesday night after a long day. I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, but I was craving something cozy and homemade. I opened the fridge, spotted some chicken thighs and a bag of baby potatoes, and thought, “Why not throw them all together?” A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of garlic and rosemary later—and dinner magic happened.
This recipe is now one of my weeknight heroes. The chicken turns golden and crispy, the potatoes soak up all those delicious juices, and everything comes together in perfect harmony. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder—so yes, fewer dishes and more time to relax!
Let’s get cooking! 🍗🥔
🛒 Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and irresistible dinner.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or use drumsticks if you prefer)
- 1½ pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes – for a burst of color and sweetness.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan – for a crispy, cheesy finish.
- 1 small red onion, sliced – adds caramelized depth.
Substitution Ideas:
- Healthy option: Swap out chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time slightly.
- Vegan version: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets or chickpeas, and use vegan butter or oil for richness.
- Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your spices are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps it crisp up beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Crisp the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes, until golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—give your chicken space to brown properly. That crispy skin is worth it!
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet (keep all those flavorful bits!), add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, the potatoes, and garlic. Toss well, letting the potatoes soak up the chicken drippings.
Add rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the potatoes are coated and lightly golden.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Place the chicken thighs back on top of the potatoes, skin-side up.
Drizzle everything with lemon juice for a pop of freshness.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the pan to your preheated oven. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.
If you want extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley (and Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy). Serve right from the pan for that rustic, cozy vibe.
🍽️ Extra Tips for Perfect One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
- Drizzle the pan juices over everything for a burst of flavor.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave on medium heat for 2 minutes.
- To keep that crispy texture, the oven is always the better choice!
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Add veggies: Try adding green beans, asparagus, or bell peppers to the pan before roasting.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle with chili flakes or Cajun seasoning for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or heavy cream to the pan juices for a quick sauce.
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Based on the NYT Cooking recipe)
- Calories: ~510
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fiber: 3g
These values are approximate and will vary depending on your ingredients and portion sizes.
❓ FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
How long does it take to make One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes?
From prep to plate, it takes around 45–50 minutes. Just 10 minutes of prep and about 35 minutes in the oven—perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I substitute chicken thighs with breasts?
Absolutely! Just note that chicken breasts cook faster. Bake for 20–25 minutes instead of 30 to avoid drying them out.
Can I freeze One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. You can season the chicken and cut the potatoes up to a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately and assemble right before baking.
What’s the best pan to use?
A cast-iron skillet or oven-safe stainless-steel pan works best. It gives you that perfect sear and can go straight from stovetop to oven.
❤️ Conclusion: Your New Go-To Chicken Dinner
There you have it—One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes, your new weeknight favorite! It’s everything you want in a homemade meal: simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. The crispy chicken skin, buttery potatoes, and herby aroma make every bite unforgettable.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.
If you try this dish, I’d love to hear from you!
⭐ Leave a comment below, tag me on Instagram, or share your photo with the hashtag #GoldenChickenDinner — I can’t wait to see your creations!
Now go grab that pan and make some One-Pan Chicken With Golden Potatoes magic tonight! 🍗✨