Side Dishes
Mastering McCormick chicken and potatoes transforms weeknight dinners into restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort. This one-pan herb-roasted harmony combines tender chicken thighs with crispy, golden potatoes—all seasoned with McCormick’s signature garlic herb blend for that perfect balance of savory and aromatic. Growing up in small-town Georgia, I learned how simple ingredients elevated family meals, and this recipe proves that principle holds true today.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: just one pan, 30 minutes of active time, and a handful of ingredients that work together seamlessly. McCormick’s seasoning blend does the heavy lifting, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor without the guesswork.
The chicken stays juicy while the potatoes develop a crispy exterior and tender interior—no flipping or fussing required. This is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly.
What you’ll end up with is a foolproof dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy family dinner. The aromatic garlic and herbs infuse the chicken and potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
The best part? It’s ready to serve straight from the pan, with minimal cleanup. This is the recipe I turn to when I need a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal that never disappoints.
Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad to round out the plate. The combination of tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and aromatic seasoning makes this dish a standout for any occasion. Let’s get started and bring that one-pan harmony to your table.
Ingredients for mccormick chicken and potatoes
Just eleven ingredients transform simple chicken and potatoes into restaurant-quality harmony.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs 🍗 | 1 ½ lb | Cut into even-sized pieces |
| Baby Potatoes 🥔 | 2 lbs | Halved, unpeeled for texture |
| McCormick Garlic Herb Seasoning 🌿 | 2 tbsp | The star of the show |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | ½ cup | For crispy, golden potatoes |
| Fresh Rosemary 🌿 | ¼ cup | Chopped, for extra aroma |
| Fresh Thyme 🌿 | ¼ cup | Chopped, stems removed |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 4 cloves | Minced, for bold flavor |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 ½ tsp | Diamond Crystal preferred |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | 1 tsp | Freshly cracked |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 2 tbsp | For basting chicken |
| Fresh Parsley 🌿 | ⅛ cup | Chopped, for garnish |
McCormick’s garlic herb seasoning is the game-changer here—grab the jar from any grocery store’s spice aisle, but if you’re feeling fancy, their bulk bins at Whole Foods or Kroger offer fresher blends. Fresh rosemary and thyme? Trader Joe’s carries pre-bundled sprigs for convenience, but nothing beats the aroma of fresh herbs from your local farmers market. I always double-check the potatoes—Yukon Golds or red potatoes hold up best to roasting. For the chicken, look for thighs with a good balance of fat and lean—Oregon Free Range or Bell & Evans are my go-tos when I’m splurging, but any boneless, skinless will work.
No McCormick seasoning? Mix 1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp salt for a DIY version. Fresh herbs wilt fast? Dried works at one-third the amount, but fresh is ideal. Swapping chicken breasts? Pound them to even thickness—they’ll dry out faster. The olive oil matters here—use a fruity, peppery variety like California Early Harvest or Bertolli for that restaurant-quality finish. And if you’re short on time, pre-cut baby potatoes from the grocery store’s fresh produce section save you chopping work.
This dish reheats beautifully—cover with foil and warm at 350°F for 10 minutes. Store leftovers in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze for 3 months in airtight containers. I always portion mine into individual servings so lunches are ready to grab. The potatoes get crispier the longer they sit—let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley right before eating (the good stuff, not the dried kind) for that final restaurant touch.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: I swear by this for lazy nights—just toss everything on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and let the oven do the work. No chopping boards, no extra pots, just golden, crispy perfection when you pull it out.
- Herb-Packed Punch: That McCormick seasoning? It’s like a shortcut to a fancy herb blend—garlic, parsley, and thyme all in one shake. Add a sprig of rosemary, and suddenly, your dinner tastes like it belongs in a bistro.
- Leftovers That Don’t Suck: Between us, most leftovers are sad. Not this. The chicken stays juicy, the potatoes stay tender, and reheating? Just a quick zap in the microwave—no drying out, no excuses.
- Budget Dinner for Two (or Six): Chicken thighs are cheaper than breasts, baby potatoes are a steal, and you’re using pantry staples. Double the batch, freeze half, and boom—you’ve just stocked your freezer for next month’s busy nights.
Step-by-step instructions for McCormick chicken and potatoes recipe
This one-pan wonder delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort—crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs all coming together beautifully.
Prep the Chicken and Potatoes
Pat the 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this is crucial for crispy skin. Cut them into even-sized pieces, about 1-inch thick, to ensure they cook uniformly. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tbsp McCormick garlic herb seasoning, 1.5 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Toss until the seasoning clings evenly to the meat.
Meanwhile, halve the 2 lbs baby potatoes (leave the skins on for texture) and place them in a separate bowl. Drizzle with 0.25 cup fresh rosemary, 0.25 cup fresh thyme, and 0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil. Toss gently to coat, ensuring every potato is lightly oiled and herb-infused. Let both the chicken and potatoes sit at room temperature for 15 minutes—this ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
Build the One-Pan Masterpiece
Preheat your oven to 425°F for a hot start that guarantees crispy edges. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between them. Nestle the halved potatoes around the chicken, creating a snug but not crowded arrangement. The goal is even heat circulation—crowding will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them.
Sprinkle the 4 minced garlic cloves evenly over the chicken and potatoes, then dot the top with 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cutting it into small pieces so it melts into the pan. This butter basting is what transforms a good dish into an extraordinary one. Here’s the thing—don’t skip this step. The butter adds richness and helps caramelize the edges of the potatoes.
Roast to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, flipping the chicken pieces and potatoes halfway through at the 20-minute mark. You’ll know it’s time to flip when the edges of the potatoes begin to turn golden brown and the chicken starts to release juices. This mid-cook flip ensures even browning and prevents the chicken from overcooking while the potatoes finish.
After flipping, continue roasting until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (use an instant-read thermometer) and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The potatoes should be golden brown with crispy edges, and the chicken should be juicy with a slightly crispy exterior. If the potatoes aren’t brown enough, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch them closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve with Confidence
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. While it rests, sprinkle the top with 0.125 cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The parsley not only looks stunning but also adds a bright, herbal note that balances the richness of the dish.
Serve immediately, straight from the pan, for the best texture contrast—crispy potatoes, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs all working in harmony. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Leftovers taste just as incredible reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes—the crispiness might soften slightly, but the flavor remains unbeatable.
Pro Tips For Making Mccormick Chicken And Potatoes
- Parboil Potatoes First: Toss the baby potatoes in cold salted water for 5 minutes before roasting—this guarantees even cooking without turning them mushy. I used to skip this and ended up with some undercooked centers while others burned, especially when using the McCormick seasoning’s bold flavors.
- Pat Chicken Dry: Wipe the chicken thighs with paper towels until they’re bone dry before seasoning—this helps the McCormick Garlic Herb Seasoning stick and promotes that crispy crust. Wet skin = sad sear. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way with soggy, flavorless chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed—overcrowding steams the thighs instead of searing, and you’ll end up with uneven doneness. A hot pan and space between pieces make all the difference for that golden, herby crust.
- Add Rosemary Late: Sprinkle fresh rosemary over the potatoes and chicken only in the last 10 minutes of cooking—this keeps its bright aroma from burning off. The McCormick seasoning is already strong, so you just need a hint of freshness to tie it all together.
Pro cooking tips for this recipe
Seasoning Mastery
McCormick’s garlic herb seasoning is the secret weapon here—don’t skimp! I always measure 2 tbsp per pound of chicken, but if you’re feeling bold, add an extra ½ tsp salt for deeper flavor. The blend’s garlic, parsley, and thyme create a symphony that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
Pro tip: Toast the seasoning in a dry pan for 30 seconds before applying—this wakes up the flavors and removes any moisture that could make your chicken soggy. 🌿
Potato Perfection
Baby potatoes are your best friend for this dish—their small size ensures even cooking and crispy edges without needing to be cut too thin. Halve them lengthwise (not crosswise) to maximize surface area for browning.
For extra crispiness, toss them in olive oil and let them sit for 10 minutes before roasting—this gives the oil time to penetrate. I swear by Yukon Golds for their buttery texture, but red potatoes hold up just as well. ❄️
Chicken Don’t Crowd
Resist the urge to pile everything onto the pan—space matters! Arrange the chicken pieces 1 inch apart and nestle the potatoes around them, not on top. This ensures even heat circulation and prevents steaming, which turns crispy potatoes into sad, limp ones.
If your pan is too small, use two baking sheets—quality over quantity every time. I’ve learned this the hard way after burning a batch of potatoes because they were packed too tightly. 🔥
Butter Basting
The 2 tbsp unsalted butter I dot over the chicken and potatoes isn’t just for flavor—it’s a moisture lock. As it melts, the butter bastes the chicken, keeping it juicy while adding richness to the potatoes.
For extra decadence, mix in 1 tsp minced garlic with the butter before applying. This step is non-negotiable; it’s what elevates this dish from good to restaurant-worthy. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. 🧈
Flip at the Right Time
Timing the flip is an art. Wait until 20 minutes into roasting when the potatoes start turning golden brown and the chicken releases juices. Flip gently—no tossing!—and return to the oven. This mid-cook flip ensures the chicken cooks through evenly while the potatoes get that perfect crispy exterior.
Overcrowding the pan or flipping too soon will leave you with unevenly cooked chicken and steamed potatoes. Patience is key here. ⏰
Rest Before Serving
Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after roasting might feel counterintuitive, but it’s non-negotiable. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Skipping this step means dry chicken and a missed opportunity for maximum tenderness. Garnish with fresh parsley right before serving—it adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness. 💫
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Chicken breasts will work, but they cook faster and dry out more easily. If using breasts, pound them to ½-inch thickness and reduce roasting time to 25-30 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—they're done when they reach 165°F internally. For extra moisture, add 1 tbsp olive oil when seasoning the chicken.
What if I don't have McCormick seasoning?
No problem! Mix 1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp onion powder for a DIY version. For fresh herbs, use ¼ cup each of chopped rosemary and thyme instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate uncovered. When ready to cook, add 10-15 minutes to the roasting time. For best results, reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes to restore crispiness. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together.
Why are my potatoes turning out mushy?
Mushy potatoes usually mean they were overcrowded or steamed instead of roasted. Arrange them in a single layer with 1-inch gaps between each piece. For extra crispiness, parboil them for 5 minutes before roasting to remove excess starch. Also ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F for proper browning.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This hearty chicken and potatoes dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a more substantial meal, add crusty bread or a creamy coleslaw. The herby flavors complement fresh, bright vegetables perfectly.
