Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots

Description

Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots is a comforting and hearty dish that balances savory, creamy, and sweet flavors beautifully. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared with garlic and aromatic herbs, paired with fluffy buttery mashed potatoes, and served alongside tender glazed carrots coated in a slightly sweet, buttery glaze. It’s a complete, well-rounded meal perfect for family dinners, holidays, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Herb Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 3 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs (about 6 medium) Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup whole milk (warm)

• ¼ cup sour cream (optional for creaminess)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Glazed Carrots:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg (optional for warmth)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.

   • Heat olive oil/butter in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add chicken and cook 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

   • Add garlic, broth, and lemon juice to the pan, simmer 2–3 minutes until sauce slightly thickens. Spoon over chicken.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes

   • Place potatoes in a pot of salted water, bring to boil, and cook until fork tender (15–20 min).

   • Drain and mash with butter, warm milk, and sour cream. Season with salt & pepper.

3. Glaze the Carrots

   • In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add carrots and sauté 3–4 minutes.

   • Add brown sugar, salt, and 2–3 tbsp water. Cover and cook until tender and glazed, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

4. Serve

   • Plate a scoop of mashed potatoes, place chicken on the side, and add a serving of glazed carrots. Spoon pan sauce over chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings

• Serves 4 people

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 38g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 10g

• Sodium: 820mg

Notes & Tips

Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat.

• For extra creamy potatoes, add roasted garlic or cream cheese.

• Substitute carrots with green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for variety.

• Deglaze the chicken pan with a splash of white wine for richer flavor.

• Make-ahead friendly: Potatoes and carrots can be prepared earlier in the day and reheated before serving.

Benefits

• Balanced meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one plate.

• Rich in vitamins: Carrots provide Vitamin A, while potatoes offer potassium.

• Comfort food with nutrition: Classic flavors that feel indulgent but provide essential nutrients.

• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked, then drizzle with the garlic herb sauce.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free margarine, and use unsweetened almond/oat milk for the mashed potatoes.

Q: What’s the best potato for mashing?
A: Yukon golds give a creamy texture, while russets make fluffy, light mashed potatoes.

Q: Can I prepare this meal ahead?
A: Yes. Store chicken, mashed potatoes, and carrots separately in airtight containers and reheat before serving.

Q: What can I serve alongside this meal?
A: A fresh green salad, warm dinner rolls, or a light soup starter pairs beautifully.