Introduction to Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Hey there, fellow busy moms and amazing professionals! If you’re anything like me, some days you just need a dinner that’s both delightful and quick to whip up. Enter my garlic herb chicken with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots. This mouth-watering dish is a lifesaver when time is tight but still allows you to prepare something that feels special. It’s comfort food at its finest, a surefire way to impress your loved ones and fill your home with delicious aromas. Trust me, this meal will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Let’s face it—dinner can be a daily challenge, especially during hectic weeks. That’s why I adore this garlic herb chicken with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots. It’s not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavor and comfort. From the crispy chicken to the creamy potatoes and sweet carrots, each bite is a hug on a plate. Plus, you can have it ready in under an hour—perfect for those busy evenings!
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle, and luckily, this dish uses simple, fresh items you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, tender and juicy—it cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with the sides.
- Olive oil: For searing, it adds healthy fats and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives that robust flavor. Trust me, nothing beats the aroma of minced garlic sizzling in the pan!
- Dried oregano and thyme: These herbs meld beautifully with chicken, contributing to that savory, aromatic experience. You can use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Don’t skimp on this; they elevate each element of the dish.
- Chicken broth: This is the base of your sauce, adding richness as you deglaze the pan. Homemade or store-bought works well.
- Lemon juice: A splash adds brightness! It balances the dish and complements the garlic perfectly.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, it makes for a beautiful garnish that adds a pop of color and a fresh finish.
- Potatoes: Any type works here, but I love russets for their fluffiness. They’re the ultimate choice for creamy mashed potatoes.
- Milk: Adds creaminess to your mashed potatoes. For a richer taste, consider cream or half-and-half.
- Unsalted butter: Essential for both the mashed potatoes and glazed carrots. It gives everything that rich, buttery goodness.
- Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they’re perfect for glazing. Feel free to chop them into your desired shape.
- Brown sugar: This gives the carrots a delightful sweetness. You can also use honey for a twist!
For exact quantities of each ingredient, scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this article. It’s available for printing, so you can have it handy in your kitchen!
How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
First things first, let’s bring out the flavors in our chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. This step is crucial; an even coating of seasoning ensures every bite bursts with flavor. If you have a little extra time, marinate the chicken in the herbs for a few hours. Trust me, you’ll taste the difference!
Step 2: Sear Chicken
Now for the fun part—cooking! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It should be hot but not smoking. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and let them sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until beautifully golden. Mastering this golden crust is key! Use a timer to ensure you don’t forget them, and peek underneath for that perfect brown color.
Step 3: Make Sauce
With the chicken cooked, let’s build some serious flavor. Remove the chicken briefly and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant—there’s nothing quite like it! Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, deglazing the pan as you scrape up all those savory bits. This step enhances the depth of our sauce. Remember, fresh garlic packs more flavor than pre-minced, so choose wisely!
Step 4: Boil Potatoes
While the chicken simmers away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your cubed potatoes and let them cook until tender—about 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, simply pierce them with a fork; they should slide in easily. Draining them well is essential, as excess water can lead to gummy mashed potatoes.
Step 5: Mash Potatoes
Return those drained potatoes to the pot and add in milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Here’s where the magic happens! Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash until smooth and creamy. Want to take it up a notch? Feel free to personalize your mashed potatoes with minced garlic or a sprinkle of cheese. Your family will thank you!
Step 6: Cook Carrots
Let’s not forget about those lovely glazed carrots. In a separate pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Toss in your carrot sticks and sauté for about 5 minutes. This step allows them to soften evenly, so keep an eye on them. You’re looking for that perfect, tender yet slightly crisp texture.
Step 7: Add Sugar
Time for the sweet touch! Sprinkle brown sugar over the sautéed carrots, stirring until they’re beautifully coated. In about 5 more minutes, they’ll become tender and have a lovely glaze. The sugar enhances their natural sweetness, making the dish even more irresistible. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to balance it all out!
Tips for Success
- Always preheat your skillet for an even sear on the chicken.
- Feel free to customize seasoning to suit your family’s taste!
- Cover the potatoes while boiling to retain heat and cook faster.
- Use a ricer for super fluffy mashed potatoes.
- For extra flavor, sauté the garlic in the butter before adding carrots.
- Don’t forget to taste as you go for perfect seasoning!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick option is great for easier cleanup.
- Pot: Use a sturdy pot for boiling potatoes; a Dutch oven works well too.
- Potato masher: A traditional masher is fine, but a ricer yields fluffier results.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing and sautéing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for perfect portioning.
Variations of Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
- Herb Swaps: Try experimenting with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of oregano and thyme for a twist on flavor.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
- Sweet Potato Mash: Swap in sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier, sweeter version of mashed potatoes.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when sautéing for a gentle kick of heat.
- Vegan Style: Use plant-based butter and almond milk to create a vegan-friendly version of mashed potatoes and glaze carrots.
- Add Veggies: Toss in green beans or peas with the carrots for a colorful, nutritious boost.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast.
- Bread: Crusty garlic bread makes a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Drinks: A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Presentation: Serve on colorful plates and sprinkle extra parsley for a pop of freshness!
FAQs about Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless? Absolutely! Just remember that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How can I make my mashed potatoes even creamier? For the creamiest mashed potatoes, consider using a ricer or food mill. Adding more butter or a splash of heavy cream can also elevate the texture!
What can I substitute for brown sugar in the glazed carrots? Honey or maple syrup are great alternatives! They will give your carrots a different kind of sweetness, which is equally delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Definitely! You can cook the chicken and make the mashed potatoes in advance. Just reheat them gently before serving. The carrots can also be prepped ahead to save time!
Is this a gluten-free recipe? Yes, this garlic herb chicken with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots is gluten-free! Just check the labels on your chicken broth to confirm.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving a plate of garlic herb chicken with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots to my family. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, a meal that whispers comfort amidst our busy lives. This dish not only pleases the palate but also brings us together at the table, creating cherished moments of connection. I hope you find as much joy cooking this recipe as I do. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner chef, and create delicious memories that will linger long after the last bite!
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Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes Delights!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delightful dish of garlic herb chicken served with creamy mashed potatoes and sweet glazed carrots.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash Potatoes: Return the potatoes to the pot and add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Cook Carrots: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the carrot sticks and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add Sugar: Sprinkle brown sugar over the carrots, stirring to coat. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the carrots are tender and glazed. Season with salt and pepper.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
- For added flavor, let the chicken marinate in the herbs for a few hours beforehand.
- Feel free to embellish the mashed potatoes with additional herbs or cheese as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
