Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots
Experience ultimate comfort with this Herb-Cream Chicken served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and glazed carrots. This delightful dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a gourmet experience at home. Dive into the preparation of this culinary gem and elevate your weekday meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots is not just another home-cooked meal; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience. The golden pan-seared chicken thigh is enveloped in a luscious creamy herb sauce that boasts a symphony of flavors. The mashed potatoes are light and fluffy, serving as the perfect canvas for the rich chicken sauce, while the buttery glazed carrots add a pop of color and sweetness to this hearty plate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward yet yields impressive results that are sure to win rave reviews from your family and friends.
Pro Tips for Making Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
- Choose high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness, opting for bone-in, skin-on varieties to maximize taste.
- For a thicker sauce, you may simmer the cream for a few additional minutes.
- Feel free to customize the herbs according to your preference; fresh herbs would provide a vibrant twist.
- To ensure your mashed potatoes are perfectly creamy, use a potato ricer rather than a traditional masher when possible.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to maintain moistness and allow the juices to redistribute.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish.
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 1 bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ 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
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
The first step in creating this delicious dish is to prepare the chicken. Season the chicken thigh generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a skillet, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat and place the chicken skin-side down. Sear for about 5–6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the chicken and continue cooking until it is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Next, return your attention to the chicken skillet, which is now infused with delicious drippings. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 4–5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once ready, return the chicken to the skillet and coat it well with the creamy herb sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to tackle the mashed potatoes. In a pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes). Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add in the butter, milk (or cream), and season generously with salt and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a masher or ricer until they achieve a creamy, fluffy consistency.
Step 4: Glaze the Carrots
For the carrots, you can either boil or steam them until fork-tender, approximately 10 minutes. Once done, drain them well and transfer them to a hot pan with olive oil (or butter). Toss in a pinch of salt and dried parsley, cooking for another minute or two until they are nicely coated and glossy.
Step 5: Assemble
Now that every component is ready, it’s time to plate your meal. Begin with a generous portion of fluffy mashed potatoes at the center of your dish. Top them with sliced chicken and drizzle the creamy herb sauce generously on top. Arrange the glazed carrots on the side, adding a touch of green with chopped fresh parsley as a garnish to finish. Enjoy your gourmet comfort meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well; just reduce the cooking time as they generally cook faster.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a full-fat milk, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat them gently on the stove before serving.
What vegetables can I substitute for carrots?
You can replace carrots with green beans, peas, or broccoli, depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Herb-Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Glazed Carrots is a simple yet elegant choice for dinner that is sure to impress anyone at your table. The combination of creamy sauce, fluffy potatoes, and sweet carrots makes for a well-rounded dish that captures the essence of comfort food while giving it an upscale twist. Prepare this recipe to experience the joy of creating and enjoying a gourmet meal right at home.
