DinnerEasyFlare-FriendlyGluten-Free

Herb Roasted Chicken with Mashed Potatoes

Bone-dry roasted chicken thighs meet fluffy mashed potatoes in this classic comfort meal. Just 2g of fiber per serving makes it one of the safest dinners when your gut needs gentleness.

Herb Roasted Chicken with Mashed Potatoes
Total Time
55m
Servings
4
Calories
385
Fiber
2g
Protein
28g
Carbs
30g
Fat
16g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

black peppermild

Spices may irritate inflamed intestinal tissue during active flares

Tip: Omit entirely - herbs provide flavor without heat

buttermild

High-fat foods can trigger diarrhea in some people during flares

Tip: Replace with 3 tablespoons olive oil for dairy-free, lower-saturated-fat option

lactose-free milkminimal

Contains trace lactose (<1g per serving); some extremely sensitive individuals may react

Tip: Use unsweetened oat milk or almond milk instead

Ingredients

    Chicken

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Mashed Potatoes

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    400°F (200°C)Equipment: oven
  2. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels—this helps them brown properly.

    Tip: Removing surface moisture helps chicken brown properly instead of steaming
  3. Rub each thigh with olive oil until evenly coated, then season all sides with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

  4. Arrange chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.

    Equipment: baking sheet, parchment paper
    Tip: Spacing prevents steaming - you want roasted, not steamed chicken
  5. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until the skin is golden and the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

    165°F (74°C)Equipment: instant-read thermometer
  6. Meanwhile, place peeled potato cubes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch.

    Equipment: large pot
    Tip: Starting in cold water ensures even cooking throughout
  7. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes break apart easily when pierced with a fork.

  8. Drain potatoes thoroughly in a colander and return them to the hot pot.

    Equipment: colander
    Tip: Return to hot pot to evaporate excess moisture for fluffier mash
  9. Add butter and warm lactose-free milk, then mash with a potato masher until smooth and fluffy with no lumps remaining.

    Equipment: potato masher
  10. Taste and season with salt, adding more if needed.

  11. Serve chicken thighs over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, spooning any pan juices over the top.

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate chicken and potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to preserve moisture. Reheat potatoes gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, stirring frequently.

Dairy-free option

Swap butter for extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons) and use unsweetened oat milk or almond milk—both are equally gentle on the gut and add healthy fats without lactose.

Ultra-smooth potatoes

For restaurant-quality texture, push the cooked potatoes through a ricer or food mill before adding butter and milk. This eliminates all lumps.

Why thighs over breasts

Dark meat stays juicy and tender even if slightly overcooked, making it more forgiving for those who need fully cooked protein without risking tough, dry meat.

Make-ahead tip

Cook the potatoes up to 2 hours ahead and keep warm in the pot with the lid on. Rewarm gently before serving.

SCD alternative

White rice is not permitted on SCD. Substitute with well-cooked, mashed butternut squash or cauliflower rice for similar creamy texture while maintaining SCD compliance.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches