Garlic Herb Chicken with Sides

This garlic herb chicken with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots brings together comforting flavors in a wholesome family meal. Juicy chicken seasoned with fresh herbs is paired with creamy potatoes and sweet carrots for a satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day.

I first made this dish when friends came over unexpectedly and it quickly became a favorite. Now it is the meal I turn to when I want something simple yet impressive.

Ingredients List

• Chicken breasts: choose firm, fresh cuts for juicy results
• Olive oil: adds a fruity richness ideal for searing
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic gives the sauce a fragrant kick
• Dried oregano and thyme: bring aromatic warmth and earthiness
• Salt and pepper: to enhance the natural flavors throughout the dish
• Chicken broth: use low sodium for better control of seasoning
• Lemon juice: adds brightness to the sauce balancing the richness
• Fresh parsley: chopped for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes
• Potatoes: starchy potatoes such as Russet yield the creamiest mash
• Milk: adds creaminess don’t overheat or it might curdle
• Unsalted butter: for smooth texture and depth without extra salt
• Carrots: fresh and firm provide sweetness and texture contrast
• Brown sugar: gently caramelizes the carrots for a glossy finish

Cooking Steps

Prepare Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt pepper oregano and thyme. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes to penetrate the meat.

Sear Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.

Make Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet cooking about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen browned bits creating a flavorful base. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer gently for five minutes allowing flavors to meld and the chicken to remain juicy.

Boil Potatoes:

Add cubed potatoes to salted boiling water and cook until tender when pierced easily with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly to avoid watery mash.

Mash Potatoes:

Return warm potatoes to the pot and add milk butter salt and pepper. Mash until the mixture is smooth creamy and fluffy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Cook Carrots:

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat and add carrot sticks. Sauté for about five minutes stirring occasionally to soften.

Add Sugar:

Sprinkle brown sugar over the carrots and stir to coat evenly. Continue cooking for an additional five minutes until the carrots are tender and develop a shiny glaze. Season with salt and pepper to balance sweetness.

I love how the garlic herb chicken sauce makes the whole dish feel special. Mashed potatoes bring back memories of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house they were always creamy and perfectly buttery.

Best Storage Practices

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Mashed potatoes reheat best with a little added milk or butter to keep them creamy. Glazed carrots can be reheated on the stove or enjoyed cold in a salad.

Ingredient Swaps

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful option. Swap dried herbs with fresh ones doubling the quantity for brightness. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly sauce base. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes in the mash for a seasonal twist.

Serving Pairings

Serve with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil for freshness. Crusty bread makes a great companion to soak up the delicious sauce. A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the meal perfectly.

This recipe combines comfort and simplicity to create a memorable family meal. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a perfect selection for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Season well and sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden on each side. Avoid overcooking by simmering briefly in sauce to retain moisture.

→ What’s the best way to make creamy mashed potatoes?

Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with warm milk and butter. Season with salt and pepper for smooth texture and rich flavor.

→ How can I achieve the sweet glaze on the carrots?

Sauté carrot sticks in butter, then sprinkle brown sugar and cook until tender and shiny, stirring to coat evenly.

→ Can fresh herbs be used instead of dried?

Yes, fresh oregano and thyme can be used but use about three times the amount since they are less concentrated.

→ Is there a way to make the sauce richer?

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream towards the end of simmering instead of or along with broth.