**Glazed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus**

**Glazed Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus**

**Ingredients:**

**For the Chicken:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

**For the Mashed Potatoes:**
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste

**For the Asparagus:**
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. **Make the Glaze:**
– In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Stir in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), and red pepper flakes.
– Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
– Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the glaze, cooking for another 2 minutes to coat the chicken well.
– Garnish with chopped green onions.

3. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:**
– Boil the potato chunks in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
– Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
– Add butter and milk (or cream), then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. **Cook the Asparagus:**
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Place the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
– Roast in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy.

5. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Serve the glazed chicken over a bed of mashed potatoes with the roasted asparagus on the side.
– Drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the chicken for extra flavor.

Enjoy your meal! This dish balances sweet, savory, and a touch of heat, making it a satisfying and visually appealing meal.