Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Table Delights

I absolutely adore this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! Whenever I make it, it fills my home with the most delightful aromas, making everyone feel warm and cozy. The silky smooth mashed potatoes perfectly complement the rich and creamy chicken, creating a meal that's impossible to resist. This dish has become a family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings or when I crave something comforting. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes to prepare, which makes it a weeknight win in my kitchen!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:21:35.360Z

Making this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish was a delightful experience. I started by searing the chicken to lock in the flavors, which really made a difference in the final taste. I learned that using high-quality chicken stock enhances the creaminess of the sauce, giving it a richer flavor.

As I prepared the mashed potatoes, I decided to add a touch of garlic and cream to make them extra indulgent. This tip transformed my mashed potatoes into a velvety texture, adding layers of flavor that paired beautifully with the chicken.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy chicken sauce that envelops your taste buds in comfort
Silky mashed potatoes that are packed with flavor and smoothness
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
A family-friendly dish that pleases both kids and adults alike

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce for this dish is the heart of its flavor profile. Using heavy cream not only creates a rich texture but also balances the savory notes from the chicken broth and the aromatic garlic and onions. For the best results, allow the sauce to simmer for at least five minutes. This helps reduce the liquid, concentrate the flavors, and achieve that velvety glossiness. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the skillet.

If you find your sauce too thick after simmering, you can easily adjust it. Simply add a bit more chicken broth or even a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your preference while ensuring a deliciously creamy coating for your chicken.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

For the mashed potatoes, using russet potatoes is key as they provide the ideal starchy base for a fluffy texture. Make sure to cube them evenly to ensure uniform cooking, which usually takes around 15 minutes in boiling water. You can test their doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should fall apart easily without any resistance. After draining, returning them to the pot drys them out slightly, helping you achieve that creamy consistency without excess water.

To elevate your mashed potatoes, consider incorporating ingredients like grated cheese or chopped chives. This adds depth and flavor; for a garlic twist, feel free to increase the garlic beyond the two cloves for an aromatic punch. When mashing, I prefer using a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth finish, but a classic masher works fine too. Remember, don't overwork them, as this can lead to a gummy texture!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure everything is measured correctly for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a perfect creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dinner.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add cubed potatoes. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot. Add milk, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Combine and Serve

Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Let it cook together for another minute to meld flavors. Serve the creamy chicken over the mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.

Presentation matters! Serve it warm for the best experience.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider using thyme or rosemary in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning according to your taste to make it your own!

Ingredient Storage Tips

If you want to prepare ahead, both chicken and mashed potatoes can be made in advance. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but be sure to reheat it gently over low heat to preserve its moisture. For the mashed potatoes, consider adding a little extra milk or cream when storing; this helps retain their creamy texture when reheating. They can easily be reheated in a microwave or over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Freezing is another option; however, keep in mind that the texture of the mashed potatoes may suffer. To freeze, spoon them into a freezer-safe container, pressing out excess air. This method can extend their shelf life for up to two months. For the creamy chicken, freeze it in an airtight container, but it’s recommended to leave out the cream and add it when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, I always recommend garnishing the dish with fresh parsley as it adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors. You might also consider a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a refreshing crunch and vibrant color. If you want to make it more of a complete comfort meal, serving with crusty bread can be delightful for soaking up the creamy sauce.

For those who enjoy a hint of spice, try adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the sauce during cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful warmth that elevates the dish. Additionally, swapping the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream, can cater to dietary needs while still achieving a luscious sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes in advance, just reheat before serving.

→ What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

Simply add a little more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.