GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS is exactly what you need. Juicy, herb-infused chicken breasts sit alongside fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes and sweet, tender carrots glazed to perfection. It’s a beautiful blend of savory and sweet, simple ingredients elevated into a classic dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are essential yet straightforward, each bringing something special to the table—whether it’s the aromatic herbs that coat the chicken or the creamy texture that makes the mashed potatoes irresistible, every element has a role in creating this delicious dish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are lean, quick-cooking, and perfect for soaking up herbs and flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps to get that beautiful sear on the chicken.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth with its fragrant aroma.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Offers a slightly peppery, earthy note that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme: A classic herb that adds a subtle minty, lemony flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor in the dish.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and layers of savory goodness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Gives a balanced brightness that ties the sauce together beautifully.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes to finish the dish.
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed: The base for silky, creamy mashed potatoes.
• 1/2 cup milk: Makes the mashed potatoes smooth and luscious.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for creaminess and a rich mouthfeel in the potatoes.
• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks: Their natural sweetness pairs just right with the savory chicken.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the carrots, ensuring they’re tender with a lovely glaze.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Creates a perfect sweet glaze that enhances the carrots without overpowering.

How to Make GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. This simple herb blend infuses the chicken with irresistible Mediterranean flavors and sets the stage for the rich sauce that follows. Don’t rush this step; coating the chicken evenly ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts and let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This searing locks in juices and creates a beautiful color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside for now.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute so it releases its aromatic goodness. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the browned bits from the bottom—this deglazing step is where the magic happens, capturing all those concentrated flavors. Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer gently in the sauce for five minutes, allowing it to soak up the lemony, garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled, cubed potatoes and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork. Timing is important here; perfectly cooked potatoes are the foundation of dreamy mashed potatoes.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash everything until smooth and creamy. This step is pure comfort—mashed potatoes should be light, fluffy, and rich enough to complement the savory chicken without overshadowing it.

Step 6: Cook the Carrots

In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the carrot sticks and sauté for about five minutes to begin softening and bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 7: Add the Sugar to Glaze the Carrots

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the carrots, giving them a gentle stir to coat all sides. Continue cooking for another five minutes until the carrots are tender, evenly glazed, and slightly caramelized. A pinch of salt and pepper at the end balances the sweetness perfectly and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish. It’s a simple step that feels like an elegant finishing touch and makes the whole plate look inviting and appetizing.

Side Dishes

This meal holds its own beautifully, but if you want to add a little something extra, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans would bring lovely contrast. The freshness and crunch of these sides provide a perfect balance to the creamy potatoes and tender chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your meal extra special, try plating the chicken breasts atop a generous scoop of mashed potatoes with a drizzle of the pan sauce over everything. Arrange the glazed carrots neatly on the side, and finish with a delicate sprig of parsley on top. Serving family-style in a rustic cast-iron skillet can also add a cozy, communal vibe that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to store each component in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent flavors from mingling too much.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and glazed carrots separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Mashed potatoes don’t freeze as well due to texture changes, but if needed, freeze them with added cream or butter to help preserve creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and carrots gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep things moist. For the mashed potatoes, reheat slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little milk or butter stirred in to bring back that silky smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will add extra flavor but may require longer cooking time. Just adjust the simmering step accordingly and ensure the chicken is cooked through.

What’s the best potato variety for mashed potatoes?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal because they mash up fluffy and creamy without being gluey.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic herb sauce in advance, then simmer the cooked chicken in it just before serving for fresh flavor and warmth.

How can I make the carrots less sweet if I prefer?

Simply reduce the brown sugar amount or omit it entirely, seasoning the carrots with a bit of salt and pepper to let their natural flavor shine.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This GARLIC HERB CHICKEN WITH MASHED POTATOES AND GLAZED CARROTS recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients, treated with love and attention, can come together to create a meal full of comfort and joy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply yourself, I promise this dish will bring smiles and happy appetites all around. Give it a try—you’re going to absolutely love it!

Print