High Protein Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. The creamy sauce blends perfectly with tender chicken and golden potatoes, making it a delightful meal the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma.
Why You Will Love This Dish
This recipe is a fantastic choice for busy families. It uses everyday ingredients, and the prep time is minimal, making it accessible for beginners. Plus, it’s rich in protein, so you’ll feel satisfied after each bite. The creamy garlic flavor is appealing to both kids and adults. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that you can have ready in no time!
How to Make This Dish
Making this creamy garlic cheesy chicken and potatoes is simple and straightforward. Start by seasoning your chicken and letting it rest a bit. Then, you’ll cook the chicken and potatoes in the same skillet, which brings out the flavor. Lastly, combine everything with a rich, creamy sauce that ties it all together.
What You Need
- 28 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 4 tsp Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp sweet paprika
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 28 oz Yukon Gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 4 oz whole milk
- 3.5 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1.5 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step
- Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized chunks and potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Toss chicken with onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, and salt. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add cubed potatoes to the same pan. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fork-tender and golden brown.
- Stir in minced fresh garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add milk, room-temperature cream cheese, and garlic powder. Stir constantly until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with grated Parmesan. Fold together gently until heated through and the cheese melts. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve This Dish
This creamy garlic cheesy chicken and potatoes can be served on its own or paired with a simple green salad. Some crusty bread on the side works perfectly for mopping up the creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, and it’s also great for meal prep if you want leftovers for the week!
How to Store This Dish
To store your delicious leftovers, place them in an airtight container. In the fridge, it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.
Recipe Tips
- Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overlook allowing the chicken to rest after seasoning; it enhances flavor.
- Stir gently when folding ingredients together to maintain texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing.
- If it thickens too much when reheating, a splash of milk works wonders.
- For added veggies, consider throwing in some spinach or peas at the end.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best flavor.
Variations & Swaps
- Add Veggies: Mix in some broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- Different Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fresh flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and potatoes in advance and store them separately. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. The sauce can also be made a day ahead and mixed in just before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! After your dish cools, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat on low heat in a skillet with a splash of milk. This helps restore the creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey or even firm tofu if you’re looking for a non-meat option. Adjust cooking times as necessary for different proteins.
What do I serve with this?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it over rice for a heartier meal.
Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 28 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 4 tsp Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust for spiciness
- 2 tsp sweet paprika
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil For cooking
For the potatoes
- 28 oz Yukon Gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 4 oz whole milk
- 3.5 oz cream cheese (room temperature) For creaminess
- 1.5 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized chunks and potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss chicken with onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, and salt. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add cubed potatoes to the same pan. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fork-tender and golden brown.
- Stir in minced fresh garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add milk, room-temperature cream cheese, and garlic powder. Stir constantly until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with grated Parmesan. Fold together gently until heated through and the cheese melts. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
