Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dinner that’s effortless yet unbelievably delicious, look no further than this Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs nestled alongside soft, golden potatoes and earthy mushrooms, all swimming in a luscious, Parmesan-packed cream sauce. Ready in under an hour and made in a single pan, this dish brings warmth to the table while keeping clean-up to a minimum. It’s an absolute weeknight game-changer that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but with a fraction of the effort and mess.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and creating the perfect balance of textures and colors. From the fragrant rosemary to the creamy cheese, every component adds something special to this dish.

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided: For searing and sautéing, bringing out rich flavors and giving a lovely caramelized touch.
• 1.5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs hold up beautifully in the creamy sauce without drying out.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
• ½ large yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth after sautéing.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 1 lb. white potatoes, cut into large dice (~½ inch): Perfectly tender with a slight crisp on the edges after cooking.
• 8 oz. baby portobello mushrooms, halved or quartered: Their earthy flavor enhances the dish and pairs marvelously with the potatoes.
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves chopped: Adds a vibrant herbal note that brightens the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup chicken stock: The flavorful liquid base that makes the sauce rich but not heavy.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Provides the luxurious creaminess that defines this recipe.
• 1 Tbsp. cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce to silky perfection.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds a fresh pop of green and nutrients.
• ⅔ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Brings umami and helps the sauce melt into a cheesy dream.

How to Make Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by heating your oven to 400°F and warming 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season those chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Sear the chicken until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked through yet—that will happen in the oven. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Onions, Garlic, and Potatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and reduce heat to medium. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions soften and become translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Next, add the cubed potatoes and stir well to coat them in the flavorful oil. Cook these for a few more minutes until they start to turn golden and tender.

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Herbs

Once the potatoes have taken on some color, add the baby portobello mushrooms to the pan. Stir and let them cook down for another 2 to 3 minutes. The mushrooms will shrink as they release their juices, creating more depth in your sauce. Sprinkle in the chopped rosemary along with a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly so those herbal aromas can mingle beautifully with the veggies.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to bring this dish to life with liquid gold. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring between additions and scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom—these bits are packed with flavor. Pour in the heavy cream next and stir until everything is well combined. This luscious mix forms the stunning base of your rich, velvety sauce.

Step 5: Bake to Perfect Tenderness

Nestle your seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, pressing each piece gently into the creamy potato and mushroom mixture. Place the entire skillet into your preheated oven, baking for 15 to 20 minutes until both the chicken and the potatoes are fully cooked and tender. The oven’s warmth melds everything together, creating that unmistakable comfort food magic.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce and Add the Finishing Touches

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Scoop out 2 to 3 tablespoons of the sauce into a separate bowl and whisk in the cornstarch to make a slurry. Slowly add this slurry back into the skillet, stirring and letting it thicken the sauce gently. You may not need it all—just watch for the perfect silky consistency. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and shredded Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts, coating everything in savory, cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

To brighten this creamy dish and add visual appeal, garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary or a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. A touch of fresh cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist if you enjoy a bit of heat. These little touches elevate the final presentation and invite everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This meal shines on its own, but if you want a fuller spread, consider simple steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or even roasted asparagus to keep things fresh and vibrant. A crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls are fantastic for mopping up the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe family-style right in the skillet to showcase all those beautiful ingredients bubbling together. Alternatively, plate the chicken atop a bed of the creamy potatoes, drizzle extra sauce, and scatter fresh herbs over the top. For special occasions, individual ramekins make for charming personal portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after sitting, making the next meal just as enjoyable as the first.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to revive the creamy sauce. You can add a splash of chicken stock or cream if it has thickened too much. Microwaving works too; just cover to retain moisture and heat in short bursts.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, though they can dry out faster. Keep an eye on cooking time and consider slightly reducing oven bake time to ensure juicy results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want to lighten the dish, milk or extra chicken stock can be used. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream makes a delicious alternative.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing locks in juices and creates a lovely crust, adding flavor and texture. While you can skip this step for convenience, searing definitely elevates the dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cornstarch or alternative thickener. Double-check your chicken stock to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.

What other vegetables could I add?

Feel free to customize with veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower, or even butternut squash. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables’ density.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy One Pan Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is one of those magical dishes that hits all the right notes—comfort, flavor, and simplicity all wrapped into one beautiful pan. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to favorite fast. I can’t recommend it enough; give it a try and watch how it quickly wins over every taste bud!

Print