Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Traditions

Whenever I crave a warm, comforting meal, I turn to my Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes. The creamy chicken is tender and flavorful, enveloped in a rich sauce that pairs perfectly with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. I love how this dish combines both texture and flavor, making every bite satisfying. Whether it's a family dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is my go-to for a cozy meal that warms the soul, and it never fails to impress my guests!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:45:34.573Z

After experimenting with various chicken dishes, I found that combining tender chicken with a luxurious sauce makes for a standout meal. The trick lies in searing the chicken properly to develop a rich flavor base before adding the cream and other ingredients. This method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and the sauce is packed with flavor.

Additionally, I always emphasize the importance of homemade mashed potatoes. Using fresh potatoes and real butter not only elevates the dish but also enhances that comforting, nostalgic vibe that we all love. It’s the little details that truly make this dish exceptional!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelopes tender chicken pieces
Buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and it all starts with properly sautéing the onions and garlic. Cook them in the same skillet where the chicken was seared to capture and enhance the flavors left behind. This not only adds depth but also contributes to a glossy, rich sauce. Sauté until the onions are translucent, which typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you can start to smell that sweet, aromatic fragrance.

After deglazing the skillet with chicken broth, be sure to scrape up any browned bits as these are packed with flavor. As you mix in the heavy cream and dried thyme, allow the mixture to simmer—this coaxing of flavors melds them beautifully. A gentle simmer for about 5 minutes is key here; too high, and you risk separation of the cream, leading to a less appealing texture.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

When making mashed potatoes, the type of potato can make a significant difference in texture. For a creamy end result, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes; they give that buttery flavor and smooth texture that pairs flawlessly with the creamy chicken. It's important to chop the potatoes into uniform pieces, around 1-2 inches, to ensure even cooking. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender—usually about 15 minutes—but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

After draining, return the potatoes to the hot pot off the heat. This allows excess moisture to evaporate before adding the butter and milk, which leads to a fluffier mash. I like to use room temperature butter and milk for easier incorporation, and don't skimp on the seasoning. Tasting as you go is essential—every batch can vary based on potato size and moisture content.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before cooking to maintain a balanced dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it's well-coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, place the chopped potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot, adding butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken alongside a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Drizzle some sauce over the potatoes for extra flavor and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious meal and share it with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding mushrooms or spinach to the sauce while cooking. If you like a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes makes excellent leftovers, but proper storage is key. Allow the chicken and mashed potatoes to cool completely, then store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, I find reheating in the microwave works best. Add a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes before reheating to restore their creamy texture.

If you're looking to freeze this dish for future convenience, portion it out after cooking and cool it to room temperature before transferring to freezer-safe containers. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, while the mashed potatoes can last about a month. Defrosting in the fridge overnight before reheating is preferable for an even texture upon serving.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables to make the dish even heartier. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be stirred into the creamy sauce right before serving, adding nutrition and color. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile of the sauce without overwhelming the dish. Additionally, substituting half-and-half for heavy cream can lighten the dish while still keeping that rich, creamy essence.

For variations on the mashed potatoes, consider incorporating roasted garlic or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You could also try using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and vibrant alternative that pairs well with the savory chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, and reheat them before serving. Just make fresh mashed potatoes right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just ensure to store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.