Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potato Skillet with a Cajun Twist

Golden Cajun-spiced chicken and buttery baby potatoes simmered in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce—this one-skillet wonder is the ultimate comfort food with a bold Southern kick.

Introduction: A One-Pan Southern-Inspired Showstopper

When it comes to weeknight dinners, we all want something that’s easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potato Skillet checks every box. It’s a one-pan meal that brings together juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, golden baby potatoes, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that’s downright irresistible.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The Cajun twist adds just the right amount of heat and depth, while the creamy sauce ties everything together in a rich, savory embrace.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this skillet so crave-worthy:

For the Chicken & Potatoes:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (2 lbs, cut into chunks)
  Thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, but breasts work beautifully too.
• Baby potatoes (1½ lbs, halved)
  Creamy and quick-cooking—perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp)
  Used for sautéing and crisping the potatoes and chicken.
• Unsalted butter (4 tbsp)
  Adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce.

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• Garlic (5 cloves, minced)
  The star of the show—fragrant and flavorful.
• Heavy cream (1½ cups)
  Creates a luscious, velvety sauce.
• Chicken broth (1 cup)
  Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated)
  Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish.
• Cajun seasoning (1 tsp, or more to taste)
  Brings smoky, spicy Southern flair.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
  Enhances the Cajun flavor with a subtle smokiness.
• Onion powder (½ tsp)
  Adds savory depth.
• Dried thyme (½ tsp)
  Earthy and aromatic—complements the creamy sauce.
• Salt & black pepper (½ tsp each)
  Season to taste.
• Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
  For those who like a little extra heat.
• Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)
  Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Stove

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat:

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil
• Add halved baby potatoes

Season with:

• Salt and pepper
• A pinch of Cajun seasoning

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

• Potatoes are golden brown
• Fork-tender with crispy edges

Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet:

• Add 1 tbsp olive oil
• Add chicken chunks

Season with:

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Sear chicken for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until:

• Golden brown on all sides
• Cooked through and juicy

Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Lower heat to medium.

Add:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves minced garlic

Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Stir in:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1½ cups heavy cream

Whisk until smooth and gently bubbling.

Add:

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Additional Cajun seasoning to taste

Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens slightly.

Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken and potatoes to the skillet.

Toss gently to coat in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors and heat everything through.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Sprinkle with:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Serve hot with:

• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Or a side of roasted vegetables or steamed green beans

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Cozy weeknight dinners
• Casual dinner parties
• Sunday family meals
• Meal prep for the week

Pair with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or herbed focaccia
• A glass of chilled Chardonnay or iced tea

Presentation Tip: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style feel.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Extra Garlic

Double the garlic for a more intense flavor.

Cheese Lover’s Dream

Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for extra cheesiness.

Spicy Kick

Increase Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for a fiery version.

Veggie Boost

Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.

Lighter Version

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter slightly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Cook chicken and potatoes ahead, then reheat in sauce before serving.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Tip: Store sauce separately if possible to maintain texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)

• Calories: ~610
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fat: ~42g
• Sugar: ~2g
• Sodium: ~580mg
• Fiber: ~2g

This dish is:

• Creamy and comforting
• Bold and flavorful
• Perfectly portioned
• Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potato Skillet with Cajun Twist is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and the magic of one-pan cooking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that delivers every time.