The Best Chicken and Potatoes Recipe — Crispy, Garlic-Loaded & Easy
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
If you’re searching for a chicken and potatoes recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and reliable every single time, this one checks every box. It’s the kind of meal you can throw together on a busy weeknight, yet it tastes like something slow-roasted all afternoon. Here’s what makes it truly special:
Crispy, Golden Potato Texture
The potatoes roast at high heat, allowing them to develop a crispy, caramelized exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside. By spreading them evenly on the sheet pan and coating them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, you get potatoes that taste like restaurant-style roasted perfection. This method also ensures they crisp up around the chicken, soaking in all those delicious juices.
Juicy, Flavorful Chicken Every Time
Whether you use chicken thighs or chicken breasts, the high-heat roasting method locks in moisture so the chicken turns out juicy, tender, and bursting with garlic-herb flavor. As the chicken cooks, its natural juices mingle with the potatoes, creating a built-in garlic butter pan sauce that coats everything beautifully.
Minimal, Everyday Ingredients
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is that you don’t need anything fancy. Just simple ingredients you already have:
chicken
potatoes
garlic
herbs
olive oil
salt & pepper
These pantry staples come together to create a dinner that tastes incredibly rich for how little effort it requires. It’s comfort food made simple.
Easy One-Pan Cleanup
This is a true one-pan chicken and potatoes recipe — everything roasts together on the same baking sheet. No extra pots. No complicated steps. No long cleanup afterward. Just season, bake, serve, and enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone who loves delicious food without the mess.
Ingredients You Need
All the simple ingredients you need for a crispy, flavorful chicken and potatoes recipe.
This chicken and potatoes recipe keeps things simple with a handful of wholesome, everyday ingredients. Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor, creating crispiness, and ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Thighs (or Chicken Breasts)
Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work best because they stay incredibly juicy and flavorful during high-heat roasting. Their natural fat also helps crisp the potatoes as they cook.
Substitute: You can use chicken breasts, but reduce the cook time slightly to keep them from drying out.
Why it matters: Chicken thighs add richness and prevent the dish from drying out.
Baby Potatoes (or Yukon Gold/Russet Cubes)
Baby potatoes roast beautifully — they become crispy on the outside and buttery-soft inside. Their small size also helps them cook evenly alongside the chicken.
Flavor advantage: Baby potatoes absorb the chicken juices, garlic, and olive oil, becoming tender and deeply savory.
Alternatives: Cut Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into even-sized cubes to mimic the same effect.
Fresh Garlic (or Garlic Powder)
Garlic is the star of this recipe. Fresh garlic cloves caramelize in the oven, infusing both the chicken and potatoes with bold, aromatic flavor.
Tip: Mince, slice, or keep the cloves whole depending on how intense you want the garlic flavor to be.
Backup option: Garlic powder works in a pinch but won’t add the same roasted aroma.
Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley, or Mixed Herbs)
Fresh or dried herbs give this recipe depth and fragrance.
Rosemary adds woodsy, earthy notes.
Thyme blends perfectly with garlic and chicken.
Parsley brings a fresh pop of color at the end.
Optional: Italian seasoning blends work well too.
These herbs also help build savory, roasted flavors that tie everything together.
Olive Oil (or Melted Butter)
A generous drizzle of olive oil ensures the chicken browns beautifully and the potatoes crisp up properly.
Why it’s essential: Olive oil helps distribute seasoning evenly and promotes caramelization.
Alternative: Melted butter adds rich flavor and can be mixed with garlic for a “garlic butter chicken” twist.
Seasoning Essentials
To round everything out, you’ll need:
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional for color and smokiness)
chili flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
These staples help balance the flavors and highlight the crispy textures.
How to Make This Chicken and Potatoes Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to make a perfectly roasted chicken and potatoes recipe with juicy chicken and golden potatoes.
Making chicken and potatoes is simple, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Below is a clear step-by-step guide that walks you through preparing oven roasted chicken and potatoes so the chicken stays juicy and the potatoes come out perfectly tender and golden.
Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any additional herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or drumsticks.
Step 2 — Prep the Potatoes
Wash and cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes or wedges. Season with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Toss well so each piece is fully coated—this ensures even browning during roasting.
Step 3 — Arrange Everything on the Pan
Spread the potatoes onto a large baking sheet or roasting pan. Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces between the potatoes. This method allows the chicken juices to drip onto the potatoes, adding extra flavor while roasting.
Step 4 — Roast in the Oven
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).
Chicken thighs or drumsticks: Roast for 45–50 minutes.
Chicken breasts: Roast for 30–35 minutes.
Halfway through baking, stir the potatoes for even crispiness.
Step 5 — Finish & Serve
Once the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the potatoes are golden, remove the pan from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of garlic butter for extra flavor.
Try our easy baked chicken legs recipe for a simple weeknight dinner.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken and Potatoes
Get perfectly crispy chicken and potatoes every time with these simple roasting tips.
Achieving perfectly crispy chicken and potatoes comes down to using the right techniques. These tips ensure golden, crunchy potatoes and beautifully browned chicken every time.
1. Use High-Heat Roasting
One of the most effective methods for extra crispy results is high-heat roasting. Set your oven to 400–425°F (200–220°C).
Higher temperatures help:
Evaporate moisture quickly
Brown the potatoes evenly
Create a deeper, roasted flavor
Crisp up the chicken skin without drying the meat
If you’ve ever wondered how to get potatoes crispy, high heat is the #1 factor.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan (Spacing Ingredients)
Proper spacing ingredients on the baking sheet ensures everything roasts instead of steaming.
The key rules:
Leave space between each potato cube or wedge.
Avoid stacking chicken pieces.
Use a large sheet pan or divide into two pans if needed.
When overcrowded, potatoes release steam and turn soft instead of crisp.
3. Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly Before Seasoning
Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. After washing and cutting, pat potatoes completely dry with paper towels. This simple step drastically improves texture.
4. Coat With the Right Amount of Oil
Add just enough olive oil to lightly coat the potatoes and chicken. Too little oil = dry texture. Too much oil = soggy potatoes.
A good rule of thumb:
1–2 tablespoons of oil per pound of potatoes
1 tablespoon for seasoning chicken pieces
5. Preheat the Pan for Extra Crispiness
Want restaurant-level crisp? Place your sheet pan in the oven while it preheats.
When the potatoes hit the hot surface, they start browning immediately—similar to pan-searing.
6. Flip the Potatoes Halfway Through
Halfway through roasting, gently flip or stir the potatoes to expose a new surface to heat. This ensures even browning and crisp edges.
7. Choose the Right Potatoes
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because of their natural starch content, helping them become crispy while staying fluffy inside.
Variations & Substitutions
Explore variations of your chicken and potatoes recipe, from air fryer versions to using chicken breasts or sweet potatoes.
This Chicken and Potatoes recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to customize based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Whether you want a lighter version, faster cooking method, or different flavors, these variations and substitutions will help you adapt the recipe perfectly.
1. Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes
If you prefer a faster, crispier option, turn this dish into air fryer chicken and potatoes.
The benefits include:
Ultra-crispy potato edges
Faster cooking time (about 20–25 minutes total)
Less oil required
Even browning thanks to circulating hot air
How to adapt:
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Cut potatoes smaller (1-inch pieces) for quicker cooking.
Air fry potatoes for 10 minutes, then add chicken and air fry another 10–12 minutes.
This variation is perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Chicken Breast vs Chicken Thighs
When choosing between chicken breast vs chicken thighs, both work—but each offers different textures and cooking results.
Chicken Thighs:
More flavorful and juicy
Hard to overcook
Better browning and crispiness
Ideal for oven roasting
Chicken Breasts:
Leaner and lower in calories
Cooks faster (reduce roasting time by 5–10 minutes)
May need extra oil or butter to prevent drying
Can be sliced into cutlets for more even cooking
If using chicken breasts, simply monitor doneness closely so they remain tender.
3. Sweet Potatoes Option
Want a slightly sweeter, fiber-rich variation? Swap regular potatoes for a sweet potatoes option.
Sweet potatoes roast beautifully and add a caramelized, soft-crisp texture to the dish.
Tips when using sweet potatoes:
Cut them slightly larger—they cook faster than regular potatoes.
Roast at the same temperature, but check 5 minutes earlier.
Pair with spices like cinnamon, smoked paprika, or chili powder for balance.
They complement chicken thighs especially well.
Sweet potatoes also boost the dish with more beta-carotene, making it a nutrient-dense version.
4. Additional Flavor Variations
Here are a few more fun twists:
Lemon-Garlic Version: Add lemon slices or juice before roasting.
Herb-Loaded Version: Use thyme, rosemary, parsley, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
Spicy Roasted Chicken & Potatoes: Add cayenne, chili flakes, or Cajun seasoning.
Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil near the end.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips
Store and reheat your chicken and potatoes recipe for meal prep with these simple tips to keep them crispy and flavorful.
This Chicken and Potatoes recipe is not only delicious fresh out of the oven—it’s also perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeks. Here’s how to store, reheat, and keep everything tasting just as good as day one.
1. How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your chicken and potatoes fresh and flavorful, always store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss, keeps odors out, and maintains texture better.
Storage guidelines:
Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Place in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months.
Tip: Separate the chicken and potatoes into meal prep portions so they’re ready to grab and go.
2. Reheating Instructions (So They Stay Juicy & Crispy)
These reheating instructions ensure your chicken stays juicy and your potatoes regain their crisp texture.
Oven Reheating (Best Method):
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet.
Reheat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Air Fryer Reheating:
Heat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Air fry leftovers for 5–7 minutes.
This method brings back the crisp edges better than any other.
Microwave Reheating (Fastest):
Place in a microwave-safe dish.
Cover with a microwave lid to prevent drying.
Heat for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway.
Note: Potatoes will be softer—use the oven or air fryer if you want them crispy again.
3. Meal Prep Tips to Keep This Dish Fresh All Week
This recipe is ideal for weekly lunches or dinners because the flavors stay delicious even after reheating.
Meal Prep Tips:
Store meals in single-serving airtight containers for convenience.
Add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs after reheating to freshen up flavors.
Keep sauces or dips (like garlic yogurt or aioli) separate until serving.
If packing for lunch, keep potatoes on one side to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the chicken.
4. Can You Freeze Chicken and Potatoes?
Yes! This recipe freezes exceptionally well.
How to Freeze:
Cool completely.
Place portions into airtight freezer containers or freezer bags.
Label with the date.
How to Reheat from Frozen:
Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.
What to Serve With Chicken and Potatoes
Pair your chicken and potatoes recipe with fresh salad, roasted vegetables, and flavorful sauces for a complete meal.
A perfectly roasted chicken and potatoes recipe is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal to something truly special. Here are some ideas for salad, vegetables, and sauces that complement the dish perfectly.
1. Fresh and Crunchy Salads
Adding a salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of roasted chicken and potatoes.
Simple Green Salad: Mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, Parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
Arugula & Lemon Salad: Peppery arugula with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil for brightness.
A crisp salad not only balances flavors but also adds fiber and freshness to the meal.
2. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
Vegetables pair beautifully with chicken and potatoes, adding color, nutrition, and extra flavor to your plate.
Oven-Roasted Veggies: Carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Steamed Veggies: Green beans, asparagus, or zucchini lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and butter.
Sautéed Veggies: Garlic sautéed spinach or kale provides a rich, savory complement.
Roasted vegetables work especially well because they can cook alongside the chicken and potatoes, absorbing some of the savory flavors.
3. Delicious Sauces to Elevate Flavor
A sauce can take your dish to the next level, adding moisture, richness, and depth of flavor.
Garlic Butter Sauce: Simple and indulgent, perfect for drizzling over chicken and potatoes.
Creamy Mustard Sauce: Adds a tangy kick that pairs well with roasted chicken.
Gravy or Pan Sauce: Make a quick pan sauce using the drippings from your roasted chicken.
Yogurt or Herb Sauce: A light, refreshing option like tzatziki or herb yogurt sauce balances richness.
Adding a sauce gives your dish a restaurant-quality touch and enhances every bite.
4. Optional Carbohydrate Sides
If you want to add even more variety, consider:
Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up juices
Rice pilaf or quinoa for a wholesome side
Mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory pairing
Serving your chicken and potatoes with a combination of crisp salads, roasted or steamed vegetables, and flavorful sauces creates a complete, well-rounded, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about making the best chicken and potatoes recipe, from crispy potatoes to chicken breast substitutions.
This section answers common questions about making the best chicken and potatoes recipe, helping beginners and experienced cooks alike troubleshoot and perfect the dish.
Q1: Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Cooking Time: Chicken breasts cook faster than thighs, so reduce oven time by 5–10 minutes to prevent drying out.
Juiciness: Breasts are leaner, so consider brushing them with olive oil or melted butter to keep them moist.
Flavor: Thighs are naturally more flavorful, but chicken breasts still taste delicious when seasoned well with garlic, herbs, and paprika.
✅ Pro Tip: Slice thicker breasts in half horizontally or pound them evenly for consistent cooking.
Q2: Why Aren’t My Potatoes Crispy?
If your roasted potatoes aren’t turning out crispy, there are several common reasons:
Too Much Moisture:
Pat potatoes dry before tossing them in oil and seasonings. Wet potatoes steam instead of roasting.
Overcrowding the Pan:
Give potatoes space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.
Low Oven Temperature:
Roast at 400–425°F (200–220°C) for optimal crisping.
Not Enough Oil:
Lightly coat potatoes with olive oil to promote caramelization.
Skipping the Flip:
Stir or flip potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get crispy.
✅ Pro Tip: Using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes gives the best crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Q3: Can I Make This Recipe Ahead for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! This chicken and potatoes recipe stores well:
Cool completely and place in airtight containers.
Refrigerate for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2–3 months.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Q4: Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and zucchini roast beautifully alongside chicken and potatoes. Just cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
Q5: Can I Make This Recipe in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can make air fryer chicken and potatoes for a faster, crispy version:
Preheat to 390°F (200°C).
Cook potatoes first for 10 minutes, then add chicken for an additional 10–12 minutes.
Toss halfway for even browning.
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