Grandma’s Skillet Chicken and Herb Potatoes
 |
| Grandma’s Skillet Chicken |
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced into wedges or thick rounds
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Lemon wedges
- A drizzle of pan juices
1. Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry. Moisture prevents crispiness, so this step matters. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the mixture generously over the chicken. Grandma always said, “Season it like you mean it”—and she was right.
2. Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high. When the butter starts bubbling, place the chicken skin-side down. Let it cook without touching it for 6–8 minutes until the skin becomes golden, crispy, and deeply flavorful. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving all the glorious drippings in the pan.
3. Start the Potatoes
Add butter and a little more oil if needed. Toss in the potato wedges, allowing them to cook for about 6 minutes until they start to brown. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables soak up all the flavor left from the chicken.
4. Add the Herbs
Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Give everything a good mix so the potatoes are evenly coated. The herbs should toast gently, releasing their aroma and infusing the dish with rustic notes.
5. Nestle the Chicken Back In
Once the potatoes are lightly browned, place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them between the potatoes. Skin side up ensures it stays crisp.
6. Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything cook together for 20–25 minutes. As it simmers, the chicken juices drip into the potatoes, the herbs bloom further, and the onions soften into a buttery sweetness.
7. Uncover to Crisp
Remove the lid and cook uncovered for an additional 5–7 minutes. This step crisps the potatoes and thickens the juices into a light glaze. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skillet chicken directly from the pan for that cozy, rustic look. Make sure each plate gets a generous spoonful of the herb potatoes and onions soaked in pan juices. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for freshness.
This dish pairs beautifully with:
Serve the skillet chicken directly from the pan for that cozy, rustic look. Make sure each plate gets a generous spoonful of the herb potatoes and onions soaked in pan juices. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for freshness.
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed green beans
- Buttered corn
- A simple side salad
- Warm dinner rolls for soaking up the juices
- A chilled glass of white wine or a tall glass of iced tea complements the flavors wonderfully.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving
Resting helps retain moisture, making every bite juicier and more tender.
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet if You Have One
It distributes heat evenly and creates the crispiest, most flavorful sear—Grandma’s favorite cooking method.
Don’t Rush the Sear
The rich, golden chicken skin is essential to the flavor. Allow it to crisp slowly without flipping too soon.
Try Fresh Herbs for Extra Punch
If available, fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley will elevate the aroma and overall flavor.
Potato Choice Matters
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and absorb flavor beautifully. Russets will work but become softer.
Add Veggies
You can toss in carrots, celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.
Final Thought
This dish beautifully captures the heart of home cooking: simple ingredients, comforting flavors, and a skillet full of memories. Grandma’s Skillet Chicken and Herb Potatoes isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm, nostalgic experience that fills both the kitchen and the soul. Every bite brings back the essence of family, love, and meals that gather everyone around the table.
Service
Serve hot, with fresh herbs sprinkled on top and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Enjoy it straight from the skillet for the full rustic comfort-food experience. Bon appétit!