Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli, and Carrots – A Complete Comfort Meal

 

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can beat a perfectly roasted chicken served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of fresh, colorful vegetables like broccoli and carrots. This dish is wholesome, well-balanced, and brings together the kind of flavors that make any dinner feel special.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply preparing a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chicken is juicy on the inside with golden, crispy skin on the outside, while the mashed potatoes are rich, buttery, and fluffy. Add in lightly seasoned broccoli and carrots, and you’ve got a complete plate that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

 Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs / 1.8 kg)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 lemon, halved
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• ½ cup warm milk
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups carrots, sliced into sticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Roast the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
3. Rub the chicken generously with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Massage the seasoning all over the bird, including under the skin where possible, for maximum flavor.
4. Squeeze the lemon halves over the chicken, then place the halves inside the cavity. This helps keep the chicken moist and aromatic.
5. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Halfway through, baste the chicken with its own juices to encourage a crisp, golden skin.
7. Once done, allow the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. Resting ensures the juices settle back into the meat, making it tender and juicy.

2. Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes

1. While the chicken roasts, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
2. Drain well and mash them with a potato masher or ricer.
3. Add the warm milk and butter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper. For a richer flavor, you can stir in sour cream, cream cheese, or even shredded cheddar.

3. Steam or Roast the Vegetables

1. Steam the broccoli florets and carrot sticks until tender-crisp, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper for simple flavor.
3. Alternatively, you can roast the vegetables alongside the chicken for a slightly caramelized, smoky taste.

 Serving Suggestions

Arrange slices of roast chicken on a large platter with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and a portion of broccoli and carrots. Spoon pan juices or gravy over the chicken and potatoes for extra flavor.

Pair this meal with:

• A fresh green salad for extra crunch
• Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
• A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay

 Tips for Success

• For Extra Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• For Juicier Meat: Never skip the resting step after roasting.
• Time Saver: Peel and cut potatoes earlier in the day and keep them in water until you’re ready to cook.
• Flavor Boost: Add onion wedges, garlic cloves, or extra herbs like sage inside the chicken cavity for more aroma.

 Variations to Try

• Garlic Butter Roast Chicken: Use melted butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in grated cheddar or Parmesan.
• Roasted Veggie Side: Toss broccoli and carrots in olive oil and roast them with the chicken instead of steaming.
• Spicy Twist: Add smoked paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes to the chicken rub.

 Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: ~520 kcal

 Final Thoughts

This roast chicken with mashed potatoes, broccoli, and carrots is more than just a meal—it’s the definition of comfort food. With crispy golden chicken skin, fluffy potatoes, and fresh vegetables, it’s a well-rounded dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions.

Save any leftovers to use in chicken sandwiches, salads, or even soups. And don’t throw away the bones—make a flavorful homemade chicken broth the next day!