Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pat dry before seasoning)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

0.5 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt (divided for chicken and potatoes)

0.5 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

1.5 pounds baby potatoes (halved evenly)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting potatoes)

4 tablespoons butter (melted)

6 cloves garlic (minced)

1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)

2 tablespoons parsley (chopped for garnish)

0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)

Optional: lemon zest (for brightness)

Optional: sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (for aroma)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, half the salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast until they start to brown, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: While the potatoes roast, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with the remaining salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes and lemon zest to form a thick garlic parmesan paste.

Step 4: Arrange the roasted potatoes around the edges of the baking dish. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center. Brush the chicken and potatoes generously with the garlic parmesan butter mixture.

Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through, and the potatoes are crispy. Halfway through cooking, brush the chicken and potatoes again with the butter mixture for extra flavor.

Step 6: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or fresh herb sprigs if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra aroma, add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the baking dish before roasting.

Use fingerling potatoes or small Yukon gold potatoes as a substitute for baby potatoes if needed.

Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken right before serving to brighten the flavors.

For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add more moisture and flavor. Adjust baking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast for the most accurate result.