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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nostalgic Flavors

I absolutely adore comfort food, and this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish is one of my absolute favorites. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, it warms my heart every time I make it. This recipe combines tender chicken breast cooked in a luscious creamy sauce, paired with buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or to impress guests with a hearty meal. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:53:34.112Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen one evening, I came up with this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe that became an instant hit at my dinner table. The key to the creamy sauce is using a good quality chicken broth combined with heavy cream for that luxurious texture. I also love adding garlic and herbs to elevate the flavors—it makes a world of difference!

One memorable night, I served this dish to some friends who were visiting, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. The combination of the juicy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes created such a lovely harmony of flavors. I learned that a splash of lemon juice in the mash adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the creaminess, balancing everything beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich chicken sauce that you won't be able to resist
Smooth mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with the dish
Perfectly comforting meal for family dinners and gatherings

      

Key Techniques for Perfectly Creamy Chicken

One of the essential techniques for achieving a scrumptious creamy chicken sauce is the deglazing process. After removing the chicken from the skillet, deglaze it by adding chicken broth, which helps lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a depth of flavor. Allow the broth to simmer for about five minutes, which concentrates the flavors before introducing the cream. Watching for a slight thickness is key; you want it to coat the back of a spoon.

Another crucial step is ensuring the chicken retains its juiciness. Cooking the chicken breasts to a golden brown on medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side is important. This not only gives a lovely color but also builds flavor. If you overcook them, you might end up with dry chicken, so I recommend using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Mastering Mashed Potatoes

For buttery mashed potatoes with the perfect texture, choose russet potatoes, as their starchy quality contributes to a fluffy finish. After boiling the potatoes until tender—about 15 minutes—drain them well to avoid watery mash. Returning them to the pot for a minute on low heat helps evaporate any extra moisture. This step is vital for achieving that sought-after smooth, creamy texture without excess water ruining your recipe.

When it comes to mashing, I recommend using a potato masher or a ricer for the fluffiest outcome. Mash the potatoes until they reach your desired creaminess, but avoid over-mixing as this can lead to a gummy texture. Finally, stir in warm milk and softened butter gently to maintain that light consistency. A little salt and pepper at this stage enhances their natural flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful meal:

For the Chicken:

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

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious dish:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Then stir in the heavy cream and thyme, and return the chicken to the skillet.

Let everything simmer for another 10 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, and salt and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Spoon the creamy chicken sauce over the mashed potatoes and serve hot. Enjoy your comforting creation!

Now that you've prepared this delicious recipe, dig in and enjoy the cozy flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill as a garnish before serving.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, you can store the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to let the chicken and potatoes cool down to room temperature before sealing them. When reheating, use a low heat: warm the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave and add a splash of chicken broth to the sauce to prevent it from thickening too much.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately from the mashed potatoes. The chicken can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream to restore its creamy consistency. For the potatoes, simply reheat and add more butter and milk if needed to restore their creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish shines with a simple side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, which adds a pop of color and a fresh, crisp contrast to the richness of the main dish. You could also serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up every drop of delicious sauce.

For a twist, consider adding herbs or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce, which can elevate the flavors. Fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled on top adds brightness and freshness. You could also substitute cauliflower for potatoes for a lighter version; just steam the cauliflower and follow the same mashing technique for a delightful low-carb option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just ensure they are fully cooked through in the skillet.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.