Mediterranean Cheesy Baked Chicken & Potatoes Skillet
This Mediterranean Cheesy Baked Chicken & Potatoes Skillet is the kind of meal that feels both cozy and satisfying. Tender chicken, golden roasted potatoes, and a bubbling layer of cheese come together in one skillet for an easy dinner with minimal cleanup. The Italian herbs and olive oil tie everything together, giving it that sun-kissed Mediterranean flavor.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the skillet:
4 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian herbs
For the cheesy topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the potatoes:
In a large oven-safe skillet, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and half of the Italian herbs.
Spread evenly and roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until slightly golden and tender.
Add the chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian herbs.
Remove the skillet from the oven and nestle the chicken among the potatoes.
Bake everything together:
Return to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Add the cheesy topping:
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken and potatoes.
Bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish and serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm straight from the skillet.
Tips:
Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor: If you have a bit more time, bone-in thighs stay juicier and add a deeper flavor to the dish. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
Parboil the potatoes for a crispier texture: Boil diced potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting. This helps them develop a golden crust while staying soft inside.
Get that perfect cheesy crust: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a bubbly, golden-brown top.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Give the chicken and potatoes enough space to roast properly instead of steaming.
Add a squeeze of lemon before serving: It brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese.
Variations:
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes before baking for extra color and nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle chili flakes or drizzle with a touch of hot honey before serving.
Cheese Swap: Try feta or provolone for a more Mediterranean flavor profile, or a smoky mozzarella for extra depth.
Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets, shrimp, or tofu for a lighter or pescatarian version.
One-Pan Creamy Version: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream or Greek yogurt before adding the cheese to make it saucier.
Herb Variations: Experiment with oregano, basil, or rosemary to change the aroma.
Q&A
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes work beautifully. They’ll add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory cheese and herbs. Just reduce the baking time by about 5–7 minutes since sweet potatoes cook faster.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Don’t overcook it. Bake only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using thighs instead of breasts can also help since they stay juicier.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prepare and assemble everything up to a day ahead, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it fresh and add the cheese topping near the end for the best texture.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit the cheese altogether and drizzle with olive oil and herbs before serving.
Q: Can I cook it in an air fryer?
A: Yes. Roast the chicken and potatoes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, then sprinkle with cheese and cook for another 3–4 minutes until melted.
Nutrition
(Per Serving – serves 4)
Calories: ~410 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 21 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 540 mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cheesy Baked Chicken & Potatoes Skillet brings comfort and simplicity together in one pan. Juicy, seasoned chicken mingles with crispy, herbed potatoes and a golden, cheesy topping that’s hard to resist. It’s wholesome enough for a weekday meal yet satisfying enough for guests. Serve it with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete Mediterranean-style dinner that’s full of warmth, flavor, and balance.