Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

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by Amelia

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Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Golden pan-seared chicken with a luscious creamy herb sauce, served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and buttery carrots makes this dish a true comfort meal that feels gourmet. The Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its delightful flavors and elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful Experience: The creamy herb sauce elevates the chicken, bringing rich flavors that comfort the soul.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve this meal as a cozy family dinner or dress it up for an elegant gathering.
  • Balanced Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken, carbs from the potatoes, and vitamins from the carrots, it’s nutritious too.
  • Gourmet Feel: Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Potato masher
  • Saucepan
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken evenly and creating a delicious sauce in one pan.
  • Potato masher: Ensures you achieve that perfect fluffy consistency for your mashed potatoes without lumps.
Herb-Cream

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Sauce:

  • 1 bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or Italian mix)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp milk or cream
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Carrots:

  • 3-4 whole carrots, peeled
  • 1 tsp olive oil or butter
  • Pinch of salt & dried parsley

How to Make Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken thigh generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook through until done. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 4-5 minutes until thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it well with the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Place cubed potatoes in a saucepan filled with water. Boil until soft (about 15 minutes). Drain and return potatoes to pot. Mash them with butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Glaze the Carrots

In another pot or skillet, boil or steam peeled carrots until fork-tender (around 10 minutes). Drain well. Toss them in olive oil (or butter), sprinkle with a pinch of salt and dried parsley in a hot pan for a glossy finish.

Step 5: Assemble

On each plate, serve generous portions of mashed potatoes topped with glazed carrots alongside your succulent chicken drizzled with creamy herb sauce. Garnish each plate with chopped fresh parsley for an inviting touch.

How to Serve Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Serving Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is all about presentation and enhancing the dish’s flavors. Here are some great suggestions for creating a delightful meal experience.

Create a Beautiful Plate

  • Arrange the mashed potatoes in a neat mound on one side of the plate, allowing the creamy herb sauce to cascade over the chicken.
  • Place glazed carrots alongside the chicken, ensuring vibrant colors pop on the plate.

Pair with Fresh Bread

  • Serve with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover herb sauce. This adds an inviting touch to your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and vegetables. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a fresh burst of color.

Include a Salad

  • Consider serving a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette as a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.

How to Perfect Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

To make your Herb-Cream Chicken truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips. These small adjustments can elevate your dish from good to gourmet.

  • Use high-quality ingredients – Fresh herbs and organic chicken will enhance flavors significantly.
  • Adjust seasoning – Taste your sauce before finishing; you might need more salt or herbs for that perfect balance.
  • Control heat – Searing chicken on medium-high heat ensures crispy skin while cooking through evenly.
  • Experiment with herbs – Don’t hesitate to try different herb combinations like rosemary or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
  • Make it ahead – Prepare components in advance to save time and minimize stress during serving.
  • Serve warm – Ensure all components are heated through before plating for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Herb-Cream Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its creamy richness. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Steamed Broccoli – A nutritious green side that adds crunch and color, steamed broccoli brings freshness to your plate.
  2. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed in olive oil with garlic, these green beans offer a savory flavor that pairs well with chicken.
  3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and a hint of nuttiness, balancing out the meal perfectly.
  4. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the main dish.
  5. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs can be an excellent gluten-free option that complements your meal beautifully.
  6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob, whether grilled or boiled, brings summer vibes and sweetness that enhance every bite of chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

  • Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your protein generously with salt and pepper before cooking.

  • Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the skillet too long can dry it out. Ensure you monitor the cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

  • Ignoring the sauce: Skipping steps in making the sauce can result in a thin consistency. Take your time to deglaze the pan and let it simmer for the right thickness.

  • Under-mashing potatoes: If you don’t mash the potatoes enough, they might end up lumpy. Use a potato masher until they are smooth and fluffy, adding milk gradually.

  • Overcooking carrots: Boiling or steaming carrots for too long will make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for fork-tenderness to achieve that perfect glaze.

Herb-Cream

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

  • Portion into freezer-safe containers.
  • Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to this recipe:

How do I make Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots healthier?

You can reduce the amount of cream used or substitute it with lower-fat alternatives. Additionally, consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrients.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will work well; just adjust cooking times as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.

How can I customize my Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots?

Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your preference. You can also incorporate additional vegetables into your glazed carrots, such as peas or green beans.

What sides pair well with Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots?

This meal pairs nicely with a fresh salad or steamed broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is not only delicious but also versatile. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or side dishes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots. This exquisite dish features golden pan-seared chicken thighs smothered in a luscious creamy herb sauce, paired with fluffy mashed potatoes and tender, buttery glazed carrots. Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe will impress your family and friends while delivering a gourmet experience at home. With its balance of protein, carbs, and vitamins, it’s not only delicious but also nutritious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or Italian mix)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp milk or cream
  • 34 whole carrots, peeled
  • 1 tsp olive oil or butter
  • Pinch of salt & dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thigh generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook through until done. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 4-5 minutes until thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it well with the sauce.
  3. Place cubed potatoes in a saucepan filled with water. Boil until soft (about 15 minutes). Drain and return potatoes to pot. Mash them with butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy.
  4. In another pot or skillet, boil or steam peeled carrots until fork-tender (around 10 minutes). Drain well. Toss them in olive oil (or butter), sprinkle with a pinch of salt and dried parsley in a hot pan for a glossy finish.
  5. On each plate, serve generous portions of mashed potatoes topped with glazed carrots alongside your succulent chicken drizzled with creamy herb sauce. Garnish each plate with chopped fresh parsley for an inviting touch.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Pan-searing/Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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