Herb-Crusted Chicken with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

This dish brings together tender, herb-crusted chicken and creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting yet healthy meal. The chicken is seasoned with fresh herbs, providing a fragrant and flavorful balance, while the mashed potatoes incorporate roasted garlic for a rich depth of flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is high in protein and offers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 head garlic
• 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons butter (or dairy-free alternative)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the head of garlic in foil and roast it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until soft.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this herb mixture.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and finish cooking in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. While the chicken is cooking, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
7. Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves into a bowl and mash them with the cooked potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
8. Serve the herb-crusted chicken alongside the roasted garlic mashed potatoes.