Unless your boss is acting criminally or being unethical, remember the rules of office: Rule #1) The boss is always right, and Rule #2) When in doubt, read Rule #1.
The fact that your boss is the boss has its reasons, otherwise she wouldn't be your boss. Holding a contemptuous thought against her is not wise. She can see it, and contempt is a killer for any relationship.
It is hard but healthy to do, that is to have your identity away from your job, i.e., do not let your job define the whole you. A job is just a place where you spend your time in exchange for a pay check. If you let your job be your life, you give your boss too much leverage, and she may use it against you.
Let your boss know that you work to make her look good. Let her hear your praise of her in front of others. Next time when you need her praise of you, it would be easier.
Going to HR is serious business. It has its rules and procedures. You do not want get caught up in its gear unless your contingency is already in place. HR will always make the management look good.
Godspeed.
