Comfort food reaches new heights with this delightful chicken and carrot plate that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. A perfect blend of juicy chicken, golden roasted carrots, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken thigh
- 2-3 whole carrots, peeled
- 3/4 cup mashed potatoes (with skins)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Metric Measurements
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken thigh (approximately 150g)
- 2-3 whole carrots (about 200-300g)
- 180 ml mashed potatoes (with skins)
- 15 ml olive oil or butter
- 5 ml minced garlic
- 2.5 ml Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Roasting the Carrots
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and peel the carrots, keeping them whole.
- In a mixing bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken thigh with minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pan-sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.
Preparing Mashed Potatoes
- Wash red or gold potatoes, leaving the skin on.
- Cut potatoes into even-sized chunks.
- Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain and return to the pot.
- Mash with butter, salt, and a splash of milk or cream.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Plating
- Spoon mashed potatoes into a serving bowl or plate.
- Place the sliced herb chicken on top of the potatoes.
- Arrange roasted carrots alongside the chicken.
- Drizzle any pan drippings over the dish for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 1
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly.
- For extra crispy carrots, use parchment paper on the baking sheet.
- Save potato cooking water to adjust mashed potato consistency.
- Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juiciness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all herbs and seasonings are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and plant-based milk.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or sage instead of Italian herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? A: Yes, but adjust cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more quickly.
Q2: How do I keep mashed potatoes warm? A: Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and place in a low-temperature oven (200°F/93°C).
Q3: Can I meal prep this dish? A: Prepare components separately and reheat when ready to eat for best results.
Q4: What if I don’t have Italian herbs? A: Create a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme as a substitute.
Q5: How can I make this dish healthier? A: Use less butter, opt for Greek yogurt in mashed potatoes, and use skinless chicken.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain food quality.
- Separate components when storing to prevent sogginess.
- Mashed potatoes can be made a day in advance and reheated.
Enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed meal that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table!