Transform your dinner table into a haven of comfort and flavor with 'A Feel Good Meal,' a wholesome recipe designed to delight your senses and nourish your soul. This balanced meal features tender, oven-baked chicken breasts infused with vibrant lemon, fresh thyme, and aromatic garlic, creating a burst of zesty, herby goodness in every bite. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes made with buttery russet potatoes and a medley of perfectly roasted vegetables—broccoli, carrots, and red bell pepper—this dish is a true celebration of simple, heartwarming ingredients. Ready in just over an hour, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner for two or any occasion where comfort food is the star. Try this harmonious blend of classic flavors and textures for a meal that's as satisfying as it is uplifting!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use this to marinate the chicken breasts in a shallow dish for 15 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, peel and chop the russet potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the vegetables: Cut the broccoli florets, peel and slice the carrots into sticks, and dice the red bell pepper. Toss them in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl.
Spread the vegetables onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through cooking.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and sear in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
While the chicken and vegetables cook, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, 0.5 cup of warmed whole milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 minced garlic clove. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Plate the meal by serving the lemon-herb chicken alongside a scoop of mashed potatoes and a generous helping of roasted vegetables. Garnish with additional thyme if desired.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting feel-good meal!
Calories |
2826 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 121.0 g | 155% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.5 g | 212% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 434 mg | 145% | |
| Sodium | 5296 mg | 230% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 294.0 g | 107% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.3 g | 98% | |
| Total Sugars | 27.5 g | ||
| Protein | 150.1 g | 300% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 479 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 19.1 mg | 106% | |
| Potassium | 8403 mg | 179% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.