You’ll love making Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots because it’s the perfect comfort food! The combination of juicy, herb-seasoned chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and sweet glazed carrots creates a delightful harmony that warms the heart. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, this dish shines in both taste and presentation.
Imagine the sizzling aroma of garlic filling your kitchen as you cook. The vibrant colors of the dish are not just appetizing but also inviting. In this article, you’ll find a rundown of everything you need to create this mouthwatering meal—from ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Each component bursts with flavor from fresh herbs and vegetables.
- Ease of Preparation: It’s a one-pan dish that simplifies cooking and cleanup.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with protein, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients.
- Versatility: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.
- Stunning Presentation: A visually appealing dish that makes any table shine.
You’ll want to make this recipe again and again!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this flavorful dish, start by selecting the right ingredients:
Main Protein
Chicken Breasts
You typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and tenderness.
To prepare, you’ll want to pat them dry and season well with salt and pepper.
If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken thighs can provide a richer flavor and juiciness.
Be careful not to overcook the chicken, or it may dry out.
Starch/Pasta
Potatoes
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for mashing due to their creamy texture.
Peel and quarter the potatoes before boiling them until tender.
If you’re looking for an alternative, cauliflower can be used for a lower-carb option.
Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender for the best results.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
Herbs and Spices
Dried thyme and rosemary are classic herbs that complement chicken beautifully.
Simply season the chicken with the herbs along with the garlic, salt, and pepper.
If you’re looking for an alternative, Italian seasoning works well too.
Fresh herbs can be used but may need to be adjusted for potency.
Liquids/Dairy
Milk and Butter
Whole milk and butter add creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
Combine them with the potatoes once they are drained and mashed.
If you’re looking for an alternative, cream or a plant-based milk can be used.
Be careful when adding salt as some types of milk can add extra flavor.
Aromatics & Vegetables
Garlic and Carrots
Minced garlic is a flavor powerhouse, enhancing the chicken’s aroma. Peel and slice the carrots for glazing.
If you’re looking for an alternative, shallots can be used for a milder onion flavor.
Take care when glazing the carrots; they are easily caramelized.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
Honey and Additional Butter
Honey adds sweetness to the glazed carrots, balancing their earthiness.
Melt honey and butter together to glaze the cooked carrots.
If you’re looking for an alternative, maple syrup gives a similar sweetness.
Watch the glaze closely to avoid burning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking this dish in one pan saves time and makes cleanup easy!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Add Garlic
After browning the chicken, add minced garlic to the pan. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic infuses an amazing flavor.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 5: Boil the Potatoes
While the chicken cooks, place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 6: Glaze the Carrots
In another pot, add sliced carrots and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add honey and 1 tablespoon of butter for glazing, stirring until nicely coated.
Step 7: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of milk, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve
- Plate the juicy chicken first for a beautiful centerpiece.
- Neatly scoop of creamy mashed potatoes beside the chicken.
- Arrange the glazed carrots artistically for added color.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water for an uplifting drink.
This meal is sure to impress!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley when serving.
- Customize by adding cheese, garlic, or sour cream to the mashed potatoes.
- Consider serving with a side salad for added freshness.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon juice and zest for a citrus twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Honey Mustard Chicken: Glaze the chicken with honey mustard before roasting for a tangy flair.
Freezing and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, ensure the chicken and sides are cooled, then place in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Pot for boiling potatoes
- Potato masher
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board and knife
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- Is this recipe healthy? Yes, it includes lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the components a day in advance and heat them up before serving.
- How can I customize the flavors? Feel free to use different herbs, spices, or marinades to suit your taste.
- What alternative cooking methods work? You can grill the chicken or use a slow cooker for more tender results.
Conclusion
Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots is a perfect meal bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s an ideal dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive gathering. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare while still looking and tasting impressive. Give this delightful meal a try, and enjoy every bite!
Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
Starch
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes Peel and quarter before boiling.
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme Classic herb for seasoning chicken.
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary Complementary herb for chicken.
Liquids/Dairy
- ½ cup whole milk Add creaminess to mashed potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons butter Use in mashed potatoes and glazing carrots.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 4 cloves minced garlic Enhances flavor and aroma.
- 1 pound carrots Peel and slice for glazing.
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons honey Adds sweetness to glazed carrots.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Cooking Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the chicken for 20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Cooking Potatoes and Carrots
- Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- In a separate pot, add sliced carrots and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until tender.
- Drain the carrots, return them to the pot, add honey and 1 tablespoon of butter for glazing, stirring until nicely coated.
Final Steps
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of milk, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Plate the juicy chicken first, followed by a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes and artistically arranged glazed carrots.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water.
