If you are searching for a comforting yet incredibly flavorful dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy bone-in chicken thighs baked alongside tender, perfectly seasoned potato cubes create a harmonious blend of rustic Italian herbs and classic pantry staples. The olive oil and spices meld into a golden crust that seals in the richness, making every bite an explosion of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal fuss, making it a go-to recipe you’ll be thrilled to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients are the foundation for this Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. The herbs bring that authentic Italian touch, while the potatoes soak up all the savory juices, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These provide juicy meat and crispy skin, essential for texture and taste.
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes: Their creamy interior contrasts beautifully with crispy edges after roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps all the ingredients brown perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts a warm, aromatic depth without the hassle of peeling garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes and balances the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that adds earthiness and slight bitterness.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, herbal brightness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Lends subtle woodsy undertones that complement the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential to season and elevate all other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a vibrant color and a gentle smoky warmth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a burst of fresh color and freshness just before serving.
How to Make Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely. Toss the cubed potatoes in a bowl with one tablespoon of olive oil, half the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. This initial seasoning makes sure those potatoes bake to perfection with a beautifully seasoned crust.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs all over with the remaining olive oil and evenly coat them with the rest of the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. The goal is to create a flavorful skin that turns golden and crunchy while locking in all the succulent juices.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or large roasting pan. Scatter the seasoned potatoes evenly around the chicken, spreading them out to ensure they roast rather than steam. Bake uncovered for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Step 4: Garnish and Rest
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous aroma that brightens the entire meal.
How to Serve Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an ideal garnish here—it adds a vibrant green touch and a whisper of freshness. For an extra special presentation, a light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving elevates the dish’s richness. You can also add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty contrast that cuts through the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe stands on its own wonderfully, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple sautéed vegetable like green beans or asparagus adds a refreshing balance. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad or quick garlic sauté on veggies complements the Italian herb profile beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family-style dinner, serve the chicken thighs and potatoes on a large rustic wooden platter, letting guests help themselves. Alternatively, plate individually with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for an elegant touch. You can also incorporate colorful bell peppers or cherry tomatoes into the roasting pan for added visual appeal and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after sitting overnight, making the next-day meal just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen if needed, but best quality is maintained when you freeze only the cooked chicken and potatoes separately in freezer-safe containers. They can keep for up to 2 months. Be mindful that potato texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to help maintain crispness of the chicken skin and the roasted potatoes. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent sogginess. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs after reheating refreshes the flavor wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so reduce baking time by about 10 minutes and monitor for doneness. Keep in mind, bone-in chicken stays juicier and the skin crisps up better.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape well and develop a nice crispy exterior while remaining creamy inside.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it relies on simple herbs and seasonings without any added gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?
Definitely! Adding veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or carrots will roast alongside chicken and potatoes, making a complete meal with additional color and nutrients.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork or knife.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet it carries that special homemade touch we all crave. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of crispy, juicy, and herby flavors that only this classic combination can deliver.
Print
Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Italian Chicken and Potatoes recipe offers a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are seasoned with classic Italian herbs and spices, then roasted alongside tender, golden potatoes for a hearty and comforting dish. The blend of garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme delivers authentic Mediterranean flavors that meld beautifully during roasting. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is both satisfying and visually appealing, making it a perfect family dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Potatoes
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
Seasonings & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the chicken and potatoes.
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub them evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle and rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage on the skin.
- Season the Potatoes: In a separate bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of the seasoning mix.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side up in a single layer on a large baking dish or roasting pan. Scatter the seasoned potatoes around the chicken in a single layer.
- Roast: Roast everything in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden. Halfway through cooking, stir the potatoes gently to promote even browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken and potatoes before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Feel free to substitute with red potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes for a different texture.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Adding paprika is optional but enhances both color and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
