### Savory Herb-Crusted Chicken with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
**Description:** This delightful main course features succulent chicken breasts coated in a flavorful herb crust, served alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
#### Ingredients:
**For the Herb-Crusted Chicken:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
**For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:**
– 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes**
1. In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic to the pot to soften it.
4. Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot.
**Step 2: Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes**
1. Add the heavy cream and butter to the drained potatoes. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash until smooth and creamy.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.
3. Keep warm while you prepare the chicken.
**Step 3: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs. Place the flour in a third dish.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
5. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts.
6. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
**Step 4: Bake the Chicken**
1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
**Step 5: Serve**
1. Plate the garlic mashed potatoes and top with the herb-crusted chicken.
2. Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh touch.
3. Enjoy your delicious, homemade herb-crusted chicken with creamy garlic mashed potatoes!
### Cooking Tips:
– For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for an hour before coating.
– Feel free to customize the herb mixture based on your preference or what you have on hand.
– Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor to your dining table. Enjoy!