Creamy Parmesan Herb Chicken & Potato Skillet
Creamy Parmesan Herb Chicken & Potato Skillet is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 665 calories per serving. Recipe by Zach Coen on YouTube.
Prep: 13 min | Cook: 34 min | Total: 57 min
Cost: $9.02 total, $2.26 per serving
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (for seasoning chicken and potatoes)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder (for seasoning chicken and potatoes)
- 2 tbsp Cooking Oil (neutral oil such as canola or vegetable)
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for sautéing potatoes)
- 1.5 lb Potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into quarters then bite‑size pieces)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (for seasoning potatoes)
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (blend of dried herbs)
- 1 cup Low‑Sodium Chicken Broth (can use bouillon dissolved in water)
- 1 cup Whole Milk (for the sauce slurry)
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (for topping each portion)
- to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (optional seasoning)
Instructions
Quarter the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes and cut each into quarters.
Time: PT5M
Microwave to Soften
Place the potato quarters in a microwave‑safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
Time: PT4M
Cool and Dice
Allow the potatoes to cool briefly, then cut them into bite‑size pieces and toss with 1 tsp salt.
Time: PT3M
Season the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp onion powder; mix until evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp cooking oil in the skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in the center, about 8 minutes.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: medium-high
Set Chicken Aside
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Time: PT0M
Melt Butter and Add Oil
Return the skillet to the stove over medium heat, add 2 tbsp butter and the remaining 1 tbsp cooking oil; melt the butter completely.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium
Sauté the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender, about 10 minutes.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: medium
Add Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle the potatoes with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
Time: PT1M
Simmer with Broth
Pour in 1 cup low‑sodium chicken broth, reduce heat to a gentle simmer, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: simmer
Prepare Milk Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Thicken the Sauce
Stir the milk‑cornstarch slurry into the skillet; continue to simmer on low heat, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the potatoes, about 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: low
Add Parmesan
Mix in 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
Time: PT1M
Re‑Combine Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and heat through for 2 minutes. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Time: PT2M
Portion and Serve
Divide the skillet mixture into 4 meal‑prep containers, sprinkle each with a handful of shredded Parmesan, and let cool before sealing.
Time: PT3M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 665
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 33 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: High protein, Low calorie, Gluten‑free, Nut‑free
Allergens: Dairy, Milk
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Turkey breast
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic
- Instead of Onion Powder: Fresh minced onion
- Instead of Cooking Oil: Olive oil
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
- Instead of Potatoes: Sweet potatoes
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Italian Seasoning: Dried oregano and basil
- Instead of Low‑Sodium Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth
- Instead of Whole Milk: 2% milk, Almond milk (may affect thickening)
- Instead of Cornstarch: All‑purpose flour
- Instead of Grated Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano
- Instead of Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Grated mozzarella
- Instead of Freshly Ground Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Microwave‑Safe Bowl
- Paper Towel
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
- Small Bowl
- Box Grater
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Microwaving potatoes until just tender
- Cooking chicken until no longer pink (internal temp 165°F)
- Sautéing potatoes to golden brown without burning
- Thickening the sauce with a milk‑cornstarch slurry
- Incorporating Parmesan for a smooth, creamy finish
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a mix of Yukon Gold and red potatoes for texture and color.
- Grate Parmesan fresh for the best melt and flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra depth (optional).
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thin after adding the slurry.
Simmer a few minutes longer or add an extra half‑teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Potatoes are still hard after sautéing.
Cover the skillet for 2‑3 minutes to steam the potatoes, then uncover to finish browning.
Chicken becomes dry.
Do not overcook; remove when just no longer pink and finish heating in the sauce.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Can freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in refrigerator before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; cool before refrigerating.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Portion into individual containers and refrigerate; reheat in the microwave for 2‑3 minutes.
- If freezing, label with date and reheat directly from frozen on low power, stirring halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet in American comfort food cuisine?
The dish reflects classic American comfort food traditions, combining hearty potatoes with a creamy cheese‑based sauce. Parmesan‑infused sauces became popular in the mid‑20th century as a quick way to add richness without heavy cream.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken and potato skillet dishes in the United States?
In the Midwest, chicken and potatoes are often baked with a breadcrumb topping, while in the South, they may be seasoned with Cajun spices and cooked in a cast‑iron skillet. The Parmesan version adds an Italian‑American twist common in New York‑style home cooking.
How is creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served as a family dinner, either on its own or alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers are commonly packed for lunch or reheated for a quick weeknight meal.
What occasions or celebrations is creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet associated with in American culture?
While not tied to a specific holiday, the dish is popular for casual gatherings, potlucks, and meal‑prep for busy weekdays because it’s easy, filling, and budget‑friendly.
How does creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet fit into the broader American comfort food tradition?
It embodies the comfort‑food hallmarks of simplicity, richness, and one‑pan convenience. The use of cheese, potatoes, and chicken mirrors classic dishes like chicken pot pie and cheesy casseroles.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include boneless chicken breast, Yukon Gold potatoes, butter, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Substitutes can be turkey breast for chicken, sweet potatoes for potatoes, and Pecorino Romano for Parmesan, though flavor will vary slightly.
What other American side dishes pair well with creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus complement the richness of the skillet. A slice of crusty bread can also be used to soak up extra sauce.
What makes creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet special or unique in American cuisine?
Its uniqueness lies in the quick microwave‑softening step for potatoes, which speeds up cooking while keeping the dish creamy without heavy cream. The Parmesan slurry creates a velvety sauce that coats each bite.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet?
Common errors include overcooking the chicken, under‑softening the potatoes before sautéing, and adding the cornstarch slurry too quickly, which can cause lumps. Also, neglecting to season at each stage leads to a bland final dish.
Why does this recipe use a milk‑cornstarch slurry instead of heavy cream to thicken the sauce?
The slurry provides a lighter, lower‑fat thickening method while still delivering a creamy texture. It also prevents the sauce from becoming overly rich, keeping the dish suitable for a high‑protein, lower‑calorie meal‑prep plan.
Can I make creamy Parmesan herb chicken and potato skillet ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, portion the cooked skillet into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway, or on the stovetop over low heat. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
What does the YouTube channel Zach Coen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Zach Coen focuses on practical, budget‑friendly meal‑prep recipes that are high in protein and low in calories, often featuring simple one‑pan or quick‑cook techniques for busy lifestyles.
How does the YouTube channel Zach Coen's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Zach Coen emphasizes nutrition‑focused meal prep, using cost‑effective ingredients and time‑saving tricks like microwaving potatoes. While many channels showcase elaborate plating, Zach keeps the process straightforward and geared toward everyday home cooks.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
