Creamy Herb Chicken Thighs with Carrots & Mash

Creamy Herb Chicken Thighs with Carrots & Mash is a delicious and comforting meal that combines tender chicken thighs, savory herbs, and creamy vegetables. The dish is completed with a side of smooth mashed potatoes, making it a perfect dinner for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or preparing for a cozy night in, this recipe will become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also has a wonderfully rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken thighs. The added carrots bring a slight sweetness and color to the dish, while the mashed potatoes provide a smooth and hearty base. It’s the ultimate comfort food, easy to prepare, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/4 cup milk (for mashed potatoes)

• 2 tablespoons butter (for mashed potatoes)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the water and mash the potatoes with milk and butter. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Cook the chicken thighs, skin side down, for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cook the Carrots: In a separate pan, sauté the carrots with a little olive oil until tender, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Dish: Plate the mashed potatoes, arrange the chicken thighs on top, and drizzle the creamy herb sauce over the chicken. Serve with the sautéed carrots on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken thighs for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Add Greens: Consider adding spinach or peas to the creamy sauce for extra color and flavor.

• Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil instead of dried rosemary and thyme for a more vibrant flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken thighs and mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and potatoes in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth to the sauce to loosen it. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as they cook faster than bone-in thighs.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, but they may turn out drier, so be mindful of the cooking time and ensure they don’t overcook.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and sauce in advance. Keep them separate and store them in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the chicken, sauce, and mashed potatoes separately for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I make the mashed potatoes creamier?

For creamier mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk and make sure to mash them while they are still hot.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can be used instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried herbs.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and non-dairy butter to make the sauce dairy-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, peas, or even mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and texture.

What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed greens, a fresh salad, or even some crispy bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Herb Chicken Thighs with Carrots & Mash is a dish that brings comfort and flavor together in one plate. With tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and flavorful mashed potatoes, it’s perfect for any dinner. Customize the recipe with your favorite herbs or vegetables, and you have a meal that is sure to impress.