Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Plate Essentials

I absolutely adore a hearty meal, especially when it’s as comforting as creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. This dish is a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only incredibly satisfying but also easy to prepare on busy weeknights. The tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with velvety mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and I find myself craving it whenever the weather gets chilly. Join me in creating this comforting classic that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.395Z

My journey with creamy chicken and mashed potatoes began when I lived in a small town where comfort food was a must. I experimented with different recipes, and I discovered the key to a velvety sauce is using a good chicken broth and fresh herbs. The balance of flavors transformed this dish into a family favorite.

One day, I had some unexpected guests, and I whipped up this recipe in no time. They couldn’t get enough of the creamy sauce and buttery mashed potatoes. I learned the importance of letting the potatoes rest for a few minutes before mashing; it leads to a fluffier texture that everyone loves!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A rich cream sauce that elevates tender chicken to the next level.
Mashed potatoes so creamy, they practically melt in your mouth.
A perfect combination of flavors that warms the heart.

Perfecting Your Creamy Chicken

Cooking the chicken breasts to perfection is crucial for this recipe. Start by ensuring your skillet is adequately heated before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that beautiful golden brown crust. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as it can create steam instead of searing. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider flattening them slightly for even cooking or adjusting the cooking time to about 8 minutes per side if necessary.

The rich, creamy sauce that envelops the chicken is what truly elevates this dish. The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a luxurious consistency. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce while it simmers. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and ensure the sauce thickens evenly. It should be glossy and coat the back of a spoon when it’s done.

Achieving Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Selecting the right potatoes makes all the difference in your mashed potatoes’ texture. I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy consistency. When boiling, ensure the potatoes are cut into similar-sized chunks to allow for uniform cooking; a fork should easily pierce them after about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mashing, as this helps achieve that velvety texture you're aiming for.

For extra depth of flavor, think about roasting garlic alongside your potatoes or infusing the milk with herbs before adding it to the mash. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. Remember, the key to creamy mashed potatoes is to avoid over-mixing them; use a potato masher or ricer to achieve smoothness without turning them gummy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful experience:

For the Creamy Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready to create this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a mouthwatering meal:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme, then place them in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes each.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until thickened.

Cook the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the mashed potatoes, top with the creamy chicken, and drizzle some sauce over the top. Enjoy your comforting meal!

This comforting dish is sure to bring smiles to the table!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the taste.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can stand on its own, but adding a side of seasonal vegetables can enhance the meal. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts provide a wonderful contrast in texture and a pop of color on the plate. If you want to elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add a hint of freshness.

If you have leftovers, you can repurpose them creatively. Shred the chicken and mix it into a salad or wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a quick lunch. The mashed potatoes can also be formed into patties and pan-fried for a delicious next-day side dish, giving a new life to your leftovers.

Storing and Freezing Tips

For storing, ensure that your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. This helps preserve texture. The dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently; I recommend warming on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy consistency, adding a splash of milk if necessary.

If you decide to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so separately—freeze the creamy chicken in one container and the mashed potatoes in another. This allows for better texture when reheating. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and will add more flavor to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but it may affect the consistency.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove for the best texture.

→ Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to reheat them gently and add a splash of milk for creaminess.