Grilled Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Fresh Salad

Healthy, Flavorful, and Easy – Ready in Just 30 Minutes!

Whether you’re meal prepping or preparing a cozy dinner, this plate has it all: juicy grilled chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and a crunchy, refreshing salad. It’s rich in protein, light on calories, and bursting with fresh flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Grilled Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)

• Juice of 1 fresh lime

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons milk (or more, for creamier texture)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Fresh Salad

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 carrot, peeled and shredded

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• Salt and black pepper to taste

️ Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken

• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lime juice.

• Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and coat evenly with the marinade.

• Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Tip: Pound the chicken slightly if the breasts are thick, to ensure even cooking.

2️⃣ Grill the Chicken

• Heat a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or nonstick pan over medium-high heat.

• Add a drizzle of oil if needed, and place the marinated chicken on the hot surface.

• Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tip: Don’t move the chicken too much while cooking – this helps get a good sear.

3️⃣ Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• While the chicken grills, mash the boiled potatoes in a bowl.

• Add the butter and milk, mixing until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if desired.

• Season with salt and pepper, and stir in chopped parsley for brightness and color.

Optional: For ultra-creamy potatoes, use a potato ricer or hand mixer.

4️⃣ Make the Fresh Salad

• In a bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and shredded carrot.

• Drizzle with the lime juice and season with salt and pepper.

• Toss to coat evenly.

Optional Add-ins: thinly sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for kick.

5️⃣ Assemble and Serve

• On each plate, place a serving of grilled chicken, a scoop of mashed potatoes, and a side of the fresh salad.

• Garnish with a lime wedge and additional parsley if desired.

Serve immediately while warm and fresh!

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal

• Protein: ~30g

• Carbohydrates: ~25g

• Fat: ~15g

• Fiber: ~4g

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on ingredients used.

Tips & Variations

• Add spice: Toss in chili powder or cayenne for a spicier marinade.

• No grill pan? Use a regular nonstick skillet or bake the chicken in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes.

• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based versions for the potatoes.

• Low-carb version: Swap mashed potatoes for cauliflower mash or a green veggie side.