Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes

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Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes is the kind of hearty, homemade dinner that brings everyone to the table. With tender chicken, soft potatoes, and a rich garlic cheese sauce, this dish delivers classic comfort food flavors using simple, affordable ingredients. It is filling, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.

This recipe is especially popular because it combines protein, starch, and sauce in one dish, making it a complete meal without extra effort. Everything bakes together, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal. If you are looking for a cozy oven-baked chicken recipe that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare, this one checks all the boxes.

Whether you are cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, creamy garlic cheesy chicken and potatoes is a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner that fits seamlessly into everyday home cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-pan dinner with minimal prep and cleanup
• Rich, creamy garlic cheese sauce with bold flavor
• Hearty and filling comfort food meal
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Budget-conscious using simple grocery store ingredients
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings

Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken Breasts – Lean, tender, and high in protein, chicken breasts provide the main structure of the dish. Dicing them allows faster cooking and ensures every bite is coated in the creamy sauce. Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.

• Russet Potatoes – Russet potatoes are ideal for baking because they become soft and fluffy while absorbing flavor. Their mild taste pairs well with garlic and cheese. Yukon Gold potatoes also work if you prefer a creamier texture.

• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the garlic and chicken, olive oil adds richness and helps develop flavor. You can substitute avocado oil or butter if needed.

• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic delivers bold, aromatic flavor that defines this dish. Using fresh cloves rather than garlic powder makes a noticeable difference.

• Chicken Broth – Adds savory depth to the sauce and helps cook the potatoes evenly. Low-sodium broth is recommended for better salt control.

• Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious, creamy base of the sauce. It thickens naturally during baking and gives the dish its comforting texture.

• Cheddar Cheese – Shredded cheddar adds sharpness and richness. It melts smoothly and gives the sauce body and flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese – Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth that balances the cream and cheddar. Freshly grated Parmesan melts best.

• Dried Thyme – Provides subtle earthy notes that complement chicken and potatoes without overpowering the dish.

• Dried Rosemary – Adds warmth and aroma. Use sparingly, as rosemary has a strong flavor.

• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors. Adjust to taste depending on cheese and broth saltiness.

• Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness just before serving, balancing the richness of the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Best Results

• Cut chicken and potatoes into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking
• Sauté garlic briefly to avoid bitterness
• Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
• Simmer the sauce gently; boiling can cause separation
• Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to thicken the sauce

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt based on dietary needs and flavor preferences.

• Substitute cauliflower florets for potatoes for a low-carb version
• Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder cheese flavor
• Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables
• Stir in red pepper flakes for heat
• Use Italian seasoning instead of thyme and rosemary
• Add cooked bacon for a smoky upgrade

Pairing Suggestions

Creamy garlic cheesy chicken and potatoes pairs well with lighter sides and refreshing drinks.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

Beverages

• Sparkling water with lemon
• Iced tea
• Light white wine for adults

Occasions

• Weeknight family dinners
• Cozy weekend meals
• Potlucks or casual entertaining

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth or cream
• Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce separating

Popular Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for best texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs add extra moisture and flavor but may need a few extra minutes of cooking time.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling. Using heavy cream and freshly grated cheese helps maintain smoothness.

Can I cook this entirely on the stovetop?

The oven helps cook the potatoes evenly, but you can simmer it covered on low heat if potatoes are cut small.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check broth and cheese labels.

Caroline

Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes

This creamy garlic cheesy chicken and potatoes recipe is a comforting one-dish meal made with tender chicken, soft potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce baked until perfectly golden and flavorful.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 large chicken breasts, diced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• Large skillet
• baking dish
• cutting board
• knife
• measuring cups and spoons
• oven

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
8. Season the sauce with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
9. Add cubed potatoes and stir to coat evenly in the sauce.
10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
11. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
12. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
13. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Cut potatoes into smaller cubes for faster cooking. Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot for the creamiest texture. This dish works perfectly as a complete one-pan family meal.

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