Indulge in Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots

Name: Indulge in Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp Kosher salt (adjust to taste); 1 tsp Black pepper; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Onion powder; 1/2 cup All-purpose flour; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 2 tbsp Unsalted butter; 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 cup Chicken broth; 1 cup Heavy cream; 1 tsp Dried thyme; 1 tsp Dried rosemary (crushed); 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley; 1 tbsp Lemon juice (optional); 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and chunked); 1 tbsp Kosher salt; 4 tbsp Unsalted butter (for potatoes); 1/2 cup Whole milk (warmed); 1/2 cup Sour cream; 1/2 tsp Black pepper (for potatoes); 4 cups Carrots (peeled and sliced); 2 tbsp Unsalted butter (for carrots); 2 tbsp Honey; 1/2 cup Water; 1 tsp Kosher salt (for carrots); 1/2 tsp Black pepper (for carrots); 1 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves (or dried)

Published: February 17, 2026

by Sally

Why is Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots a must-try?

Comforting, classic combination: This dish marries tender chicken with a creamy herb sauce, creating a warm, inviting meal.
Quick and easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have a flavorful feast on the table in under an hour.
Flavor-packed sauce: The garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs elevate the dish, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
Perfect for busy nights: No need to order takeout when you can whip up this homemade delight in no time!
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Creamy Herb Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a delightful meal with this essential ingredient list for your Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots!

For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – choose large pieces for easier cooking and juiciness.
• Kosher salt – adds necessary flavor; adjust to taste.
• Black pepper – enhances the overall seasoning profile.
• Garlic powder – a quick way to infuse garlic flavor without the chopping!
• Onion powder – complements the garlic for a deeper flavor.
• All-purpose flour – helps to create a golden crust on the chicken.
• Olive oil – for a healthy sear and adds richness.
• Unsalted butter – adds a creamy, delicious finish to the sauce.
• Garlic (minced) – fresh garlic boosts overall flavor.
• Dijon mustard – adds tanginess and depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth – provides the liquid base for a hearty sauce.
• Heavy cream – gives you that irresistible creamy texture.
• Dried thyme – introduces a classic herb flavor.
• Dried rosemary (crushed) – offers an aromatic touch to balance the dish.
• Chopped fresh parsley – brightens up the dish and adds color.
• Lemon juice (optional) – a splash of acidity can enhance the flavors!

For the Mashed Potatoes
• Yukon Gold potatoes – creamy and buttery, perfect for mashing.
• Kosher salt – for flavoring the potato cooking water.
• Unsalted butter (for potatoes) – makes your mashed potatoes extra rich.
• Whole milk (warmed) – helps achieve that creamy consistency.
• Sour cream – adds tang and smoothness to your mash.
• Black pepper (for potatoes) – seasons the potatoes beautifully.

For the Glazed Carrots
• Carrots (peeled and sliced) – sweet, fresh, and colorful!
• Unsalted butter (for carrots) – enriches the flavor of the glaze.
• Honey – adds natural sweetness to the dish.
• Water – helps steam and cook the carrots evenly.
• Kosher salt (for carrots) – a subtle seasoning to enhance their taste.
• Black pepper (for carrots) – rounds out the flavor profile.
• Fresh thyme leaves (or dried) – brings an earthy note to the carrots.

How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken

Cook potatoes: Add the peeled and chunked potatoes to a large pot, covering them with cold water by 1 inch. Sprinkle in 1 1/2 tsp salt, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
Glaze carrots: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with honey, water, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced carrots and cover. Simmer for 6–8 minutes, then uncover and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until they’re tender and glossy. Stir in the thyme and keep warm.
Season chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Lightly coat both sides with flour to help create a lovely crust.
Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil to rest.
Start sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, then pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Finish sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and rosemary. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce lightly thickens. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice, if using. Season to taste.
Warm chicken in sauce: Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well coated.
Mash potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Let them steam off for 1 minute, then mash with butter, warmed milk, sour cream, and pepper. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed and add salt to taste.
Serve: Spoon generous portions of the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates, top with the chicken and luscious herb sauce, and add the beautiful glazed carrots on the side. Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.

Optional: Drizzle a little extra honey over the glazed carrots for added sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Creamy Herb Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delicious twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use olive oil instead of butter for a rich flavor without dairy.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a delightful kick that awakens the palate. This minor adjustment can turn up the heat and excitement!
Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like tarragon or basil instead of thyme and rosemary for a unique twist on the classic flavors. Fresh herbs can transform the dish completely!
Lemon Zest: Incorporate some fresh lemon zest into the sauce for an extra burst of citrus brightness that engages the senses and elevates the entire profile.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers into the chicken sauce for additional texture and flavor. These additions not only enhance nutrition but also add vibrant color.
Nutty Goodness: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds to the mashed potatoes for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that will have everyone reaching back for more.
Sweet Variations: Use maple syrup instead of honey for the glazed carrots to give a distinctive sweetness that beautifully complements their natural flavors.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with cornstarch to create a thicker sauce without gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comfort dish.

What to Serve with Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance this comforting dish and tantalize your taste buds.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is the perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy herb sauce.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a crisp, fresh contrast and a pop of color to your creamy, hearty meal.
Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites and complements the dish beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy edges create a wonderful texture, balancing out the creaminess of the chicken and potatoes.
Wild Rice Pilaf: The earthy, chewy grains add depth and a nutty flavor, enriching the overall meal experience.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes well with the herb sauce, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and creamy elements.
Apple Pie: End your meal with a slice of warm apple pie to bring a sweet, comforting finish to this delightful dining experience.
Fresh Lemonade: A glass of this refreshing drink with a hint of citrus zest complements the richness of the entire meal.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Herb Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy chicken dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Mashed Potatoes: If you have leftover mashed potatoes, store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk to revive their creamy texture.

Glazed Carrots: Store glazed carrots in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, it’s best to blanch them briefly, then let them cool before placing in a freezer bag, where they can last for up to 2 months.

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots is a fantastic recipe to prepare ahead of time, saving you precious moments on busy weeknights! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator, which helps enhance the flavors. The mashed potatoes can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just reheat and add a splash of milk to achieve that creamy consistency. For the glazed carrots, you can cook and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm everything in a skillet, finishing by spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken, resulting in a deliciously comforting meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Creamy Herb Chicken

Perfect Chicken: Choose chicken breasts of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound them slightly if needed.

Sauce Timing: Add heavy cream towards the end to prevent curdling; simmer only until slightly thickened.

Mashed Potatoes: Avoid over-mashing to keep potatoes from becoming gluey; use a potato masher for a fluffy texture.

Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust seasoning for each component of the dish; don’t forget the lemon juice for freshness!

Carrot Glaze: Keep an eye on the carrots while glazing; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Aim for tender yet crisp.

Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for meat that is pink, plump, and free of dark spots, as these indicate freshness. Avoid any with an off odor or slimy texture. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for a richer flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist, or microwave on medium for a few minutes until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish? How?
Yes, you can freeze the Creamy Herb Chicken! First, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce together, and the mashed potatoes separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

What if the sauce is too thin?
Very! If your sauce turns out too thin after simmering, you can thicken it by mixing a small amount of cornstarch with water to make a slurry, and gradually stir it into the sauce while it cooks. Let it simmer until thickened slightly. Alternatively, simmer it longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors.

How can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. For gluten-free needs, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Are there any ingredients I should avoid for my pets?
Absolutely, many of the ingredients in this dish, like garlic, onions, and certain seasonings, can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you plan to share any chicken with your furry friends, make sure it’s plain, fully cooked, and free of any seasoning. Always consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.