01 -
First things first, get those potatoes ready! Wash and quarter your baby red potatoes. You want them in roughly equal sizes so they cook evenly. Then, pat your chicken thighs super dry with paper towels; this is key for crispy skin, trust me. I used to skip this, and my chicken skin would be a bit rubbery. Don't make my mistakes! A dry surface means a golden, crackly skin, which is exactly what we're after for this dish.
02 -
In a large bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with half of the olive oil, a good pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of the Italian seasoning. Make sure every potato piece is coated. This is where I sometimes get a little heavy-handed with the salt, so taste a tiny bit if you're unsure! I love how the herbs cling to the potatoes, promising deliciousness. Spread them out on a large baking sheet, ensuring they're in a single layer for maximum crispiness.
03 -
Now for the chicken! In the same bowl (no need for another dirty dish, right?), drizzle the chicken thighs with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle generously with the rest of the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Really rub those spices into the skin. Then, add half of your minced fresh garlic and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, pressing it onto the chicken skin. Oh, the smell of that garlic and Parmesan already!
04 -
Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs among the potatoes on the baking sheet. Make sure the chicken skin is facing up. Pop the sheet into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and roast for about 30-35 minutes. You'll start to smell the most incredible aromas filling your kitchen – that’s the magic happening! The chicken skin should be turning golden brown, and the potatoes should be softening.
05 -
After that initial roasting time, carefully pull the baking sheet out. Now, sprinkle the remaining fresh minced garlic and Parmesan cheese over both the chicken and potatoes. This second round of garlic gets beautifully aromatic without burning, and the Parmesan melts into a cheesy dream. I always get a little excited at this step because I know the flavors are about to intensify!
06 -
Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender and deeply golden. The chicken skin should be wonderfully crispy, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned. Let the finished dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra succulent. Honestly, it’s hard to wait!