There's something undeniably heartwarming about a dinner that comes together in one glorious skillet, and this BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet is exactly that kind of meal. Bursting with tender bites of chicken, crispy cubes of potato, and gooey melted cheese, all coated in a tangy-sweet barbecue sauce, it instantly becomes the star of any dinner table. As a passionate home cook, I love how this dish brings comfort food to the next level—its smoky paprika and garlic undertones mingle with the earthy potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or planning a casual family gathering, this skillet delivers hearty satisfaction without a mountain of dishes to wash later.
During busy weeknights, I often lean on recipes that are simple yet sensational, and this one-pan wonder checks every box. With a mere 10-minute prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking, it’s beginner-friendly and approachable, even if you’ve never seared chicken or crisped potatoes before. Savor the ultimate comfort food with this BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up! Clocking in at around 600 calories per serving, it’s substantial enough to please hungry appetites while still feeling like a balanced, complete meal. Trust me, once you taste those tender chicken pieces bathed in barbecue sauce and crowned with shredded cheddar, you’ll understand why this dish has become a go-to in my own kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BBQ CHICKEN POTATO SKILLET
Every ingredient in this skillet serves a special purpose, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color. By keeping things simple and relying on pantry staples, you’ll be able to assemble this recipe in no time—and each component works together to deliver that crave-worthy barbecue taste.
- Olive oil
Provides a smooth cooking surface for browning both chicken and potatoes. Its mild flavor helps carry the aromatics and ensures nothing sticks to the pan.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean and tender, these bite-sized pieces offer a protein-packed foundation. They absorb the spices beautifully and cook quickly for a weeknight-friendly meal.
- Salt
Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and potatoes. It’s the simple seasoning that makes each bite sing.
- Black pepper
Adds a subtle kick and aromatic warmth, balancing the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
- Garlic powder
Introduces savory depth and a hint of pungency without the fuss of mincing fresh garlic.
- Smoked paprika
Brings in a gentle smokiness and vibrant color that echoes the barbecue theme.
- Onion powder
Delivers a sweet, savory onion essence, rounding out the spice blend without overpowering.
- Dried thyme
Imparts an earthy, herbal note that complements both poultry and potatoes.
- Russet potatoes
Their starchy texture crisps up golden in the skillet, offering a hearty bite that soaks up sauce beautifully.
- Barbecue sauce
The star of the show, its tangy-sweet profile coats every ingredient and ties the dish together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Melts into gooey strands over the skillet, adding richness and a creamy finish.
- Green onions
Provide a fresh, sharp contrast with their mild onion flavor and bright green color.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Lends a burst of herbal brightness at the end, elevating each mouthful with a pop of color and freshness.
HOW TO MAKE BBQ CHICKEN POTATO SKILLET
Bringing this skillet to life is as straightforward as it is satisfying. You’ll use one large pan to sear, sauté, and bake everything—making cleanup a breeze and flavor layers simply unbeatable. Let’s walk through each step so you can nail that perfect balance of crispy, tender, and saucy.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer lightly so it’s hot enough to sear the chicken without sticking.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Stir thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the spice blend.
3. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, or until it's browned on the edges and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside, leaving any flavorful bits in the skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add the cubed potatoes. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the potatoes.
6. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken and potatoes, using a spatula to stir and coat everything evenly in that tangy-sweet goodness.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes. Cover the skillet and cook for another 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
9. Serve hot as a satisfying main dish, ideal for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BBQ CHICKEN POTATO SKILLET
When you plate up this skillet, you’ll want to complement its bold flavors and comfort-food vibes. With a few simple sides and garnishes, you can elevate the experience and turn a weeknight dinner into a memorable meal. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve:
- Fresh Green Salad
A crisp bed of baby lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices tossed in a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the skillet. The acidic tang balances the barbecue sauce, making each forkful feel bright and refreshing.
- Steamed Vegetables
Simple steamed broccoli or green beans sprinkled with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil offer vibrant color and a tender-crisp contrast. Their earthy tones ground the sweet and smoky flavors on the plate.
- Warm Cornbread
Serve a piece of moist cornbread on the side for a Southern-inspired touch. Its slightly sweet, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the tangy barbecue and melty cheese.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips
Scoop up bites of chicken and potatoes with crunchy chips for a fun, shareable finish. The salty crunch heightens the textural play, and a dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast.
HOW TO STORE BBQ CHICKEN POTATO SKILLET
This skillet is just as delightful the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or simply saving leftovers for a quick lunch. Proper storage will ensure you keep that fresh taste and tender texture. Here are some tips for stashing away any extras:
- Refrigerator Storage
Let the skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
- Freezer Storage
For longer-term storage, portion the cooled skillet into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Layered Separation
If you want to preserve potato crispiness, store the chicken and potatoes separately. Keep the sauce-coated chicken in one container and the potato cubes in another. Combine and reheat just before serving for better texture.
- Reheating Method
To revive that just-cooked flavor, reheat in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat, covering loosely. Stir occasionally until heated through, then sprinkle on extra cheese and cover briefly to melt.
CONCLUSION
All in all, this BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet brings together the best of comfort food in one easy, one-pan package. From the first sizzle of seasoned chicken hitting a hot skillet to the moment you spoon out those saucy, cheesy bites, it’s a recipe designed for busy home cooks and hungry families alike. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal prep, you’ve got a beginner-level dinner that feels impressively gourmet. The russet potatoes crisp up just right, the barbecue sauce provides a tangy punch, and the cheddar melts into stringy, savory goodness that makes each forkful extra satisfying. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy weeknight meal or planning a laid-back weekend gathering, this skillet checks all the boxes: flavorful, hearty, and downright delicious.
Feel free to print this article or save it as a go-to reference the next time you need a fuss-free yet unforgettable dinner. Don’t forget to scroll down to the FAQ section for answers to common questions about substitutions, spice variations, and more. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your comments, questions, or feedback below. Did you experiment with sweet potatoes or add a spicy twist? Any tips for making it your own? Sharing your experience helps everyone in our cooking community, so let me know how this BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet becomes a staple in your kitchen!
BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet
Description
This one-pan BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and melty cheese, all enveloped in tangy barbecue sauce for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Stir to coat the chicken well with the seasonings.
-
Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until it's browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
-
In the same skillet, add the cubed potatoes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
-
Reduce the heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
-
Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken and potatoes, stirring to combine everything evenly.
-
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and potatoes. Cover the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped cilantro on top for garnish.
-
Serve hot as a satisfying main dish, ideal for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Note
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a sweeter taste.
- If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- For a smoky taste, try using a smoked barbecue sauce variety.
