Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is a delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, showcasing tender chicken enveloped in a rich herb cream sauce, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and sweet glazed carrots. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it an ideal choice for various occasions, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful dish ready in no time.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of herbs and creamy sauce elevates the chicken to new heights, making every bite memorable.
- Versatile Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes and glazed carrots complement the chicken perfectly, providing a well-rounded meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this recipe impresses every time.
- Family-Friendly: The delicious flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
To make Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure smooth cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling potatoes
- Steamer or pot for steaming carrots
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for searing the chicken and making the herb cream sauce in one pan, which enhances flavor.
- Pot for boiling potatoes: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking of potatoes, leading to fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Steamer or pot for steaming carrots: Steaming retains nutrients while providing a tender crunch to the carrots.
Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cooking time: 35 min
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~620 kcal
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts (skin-on for best flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Herb Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250 ml chicken broth
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp oregano
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 800 g potatoes
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml warm milk
- Salt & nutmeg
For the Glazed Carrots
- 400 g baby carrots
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
- Salt & parsley
How to Make Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Herb Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth followed by heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, parsley, and oregano.
- Simmer until creamy; return the seared chicken to the skillet and cook until done.
Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain potatoes and mash them in a bowl with butter and warm milk.
- Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Step 4: Glaze the Carrots
- Steam baby carrots until tender (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- In a small pan, melt butter over low heat; add honey or brown sugar along with a pinch of salt.
- Toss steamed carrots in the glaze until well coated.
Step 5: Plate Your Dish
- On each plate, serve a generous scoop of mashed potatoes alongside glazed carrots.
- Place your herb cream chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle any remaining herb cream sauce over everything and garnish with fresh parsley for added flair.
Enjoy your delightful Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots!
How to Serve Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
Serving Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is not just about the taste, but also the presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish that will impress your family and guests.
Classic Plating
- Use a large plate to arrange the mashed potatoes in the center, creating a little well for the chicken.
- Place glazed carrots artistically around the chicken for a beautiful contrast in color.
Family Style
- Serve everything in large bowls on the dining table so everyone can help themselves.
- Allow guests to customize their plates by adding more of their favorite components.
Bistro Style
- Present each serving on individual plates with a drizzle of herb cream sauce over the chicken for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with fresh parsley to enhance visual appeal.
Picnic Style
- Pack the chicken, mashed potatoes, and glazed carrots in separate containers for easy transport.
- Perfect for outdoor gatherings where you can enjoy a hearty meal al fresco.
How to Perfect Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
To achieve an exceptional Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose quality chicken: Opt for fresh, organic chicken thighs or breasts. This ensures better flavor and juiciness in your dish.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and enhances its tenderness.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste your herb cream sauce as it simmers. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Use warm milk: When making mashed potatoes, use warm milk instead of cold. It blends better and helps keep your potatoes creamy.
- Cut carrots uniformly: For even cooking and glaze absorption, ensure all baby carrots are roughly the same size before steaming.
- Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to try different herbs like rosemary or dill in the herb sauce for unique flavors that complement your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
Pairing side dishes with Herb Cream Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this main dish beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch alongside your creamy chicken and potatoes.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover herb cream sauce; its crispy texture contrasts nicely with the softness of other components.
Caesar Salad: A light salad with crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons brings a fresh element to balance out the richness of the main dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor and crispy texture; toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until golden brown.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes nicely; serve it grilled or boiled with a pat of butter on top.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness to your meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy elements.
Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative packed with protein; mix cooked quinoa with diced vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory flavors; simply bake until tender and serve alongside your main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots to perfection.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
- Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland flavors. Remember to season the chicken, potatoes, and carrots separately for a well-rounded taste.
- Not Resting the Meat: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking releases juices, making it dry. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or milk can affect the texture of your mashed potatoes. Ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for a creamier mash.
- Inaccurate Measurements: Improper ingredient measurements can alter the dish’s flavor and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in your Herb Cream Chicken preparation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
- Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality retention.
Reheating Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some questions you might have about making Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots.
What should I serve with Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
For creamier mashed potatoes, use warm milk and add more butter or cream gradually while mashing until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep components like the herb sauce and mashed potatoes in advance. Just store them separately and combine before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter in the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its creamy herb sauce complements the tender chicken beautifully, while creamy mashed potatoes and sweet glazed carrots complete the meal. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables!
Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
Herb Cream Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is a delightful comfort dish that will elevate your dining experience. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich herb-infused cream sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and sweet, glazed carrots. Perfect for family gatherings or entertaining friends, this meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The harmonious combination of flavors and textures ensures everyone at the table will leave satisfied.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250 ml chicken broth
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp oregano
- 800 g potatoes
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml warm milk
- Salt & nutmeg
- 400 g baby carrots
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
- Salt & parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in olive oil until golden brown; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add chicken broth and cream along with Dijon mustard and herbs; simmer.
- Boil potatoes until soft; mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and nutmeg.
- Steam carrots until tender; glaze with melted butter and honey or sugar.
- Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes with glazed carrots on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Boiling/Steaming
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: For even cooking, ensure all vegetables are cut uniformly. Experiment with different herbs to customize your flavor profile.