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: 1 lb 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; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I think of comfort food, creamy chicken and mashed potatoes immediately spring to mind. There’s something so satisfying about this dish, as the creamy sauce envelops tender chicken pieces and fluffy mashed potatoes. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a delightful harmony that warms the heart. It’s a dish I often prepare during chilly evenings or when I'm looking for a little culinary hug. If you love rich and hearty meals that are easy to whip up, this recipe is just for you!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.729Z

After experimenting with countless comfort food recipes, I finally perfected one that truly makes my heart sing. The creamy sauce is made from scratch, which elevates this dish beyond anything you'd find in a box. I like to use a blend of seasonings that complements the chicken while keeping it simple enough to bring out the natural flavors.

One of my best tips is to ensure the chicken is seared to a golden brown before adding the sauce. This not only boosts the flavor but also results in a lovely texture that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t want to go back!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Savory chicken infused with rich flavors
Perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes that complement every bite

      

Tips for Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, it's crucial to ensure that your skillet is adequately preheated before adding the chicken. This helps develop a golden sear, locking in the chicken's moisture. If you're unsure, a few drops of water should sizzle upon contact with the pan. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

For added depth of flavor in the sauce, consider deglazing the skillet after removing the chicken. Simply add a splash of white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This caramelization adds a rich layer of flavor to your creamy chicken dish, making it even more satisfying.

Making the Mashed Potatoes Exquisite

The key to incredibly fluffy mashed potatoes is to avoid over-mashing. Use a potato masher or even a ricer for a light texture. If you overwork them, they can become gluey. After mashing, mix in warm milk and melted butter to keep the potatoes fluffy. If you don’t have russet potatoes, Yukon golds are a great substitute, providing a buttery flavor and creamy consistency.

If you're preparing this meal ahead of time, you can make the mashed potatoes and chicken sauce separately. Store the potatoes covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat them with a splash of milk to restore their creaminess. For the chicken, reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Chicken

1 lb 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
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meal:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme, then add to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Then add the heavy cream, stirring well to combine.

Combine Chicken and Simmer

Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the creamy sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken mixture. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Your Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it’s simmering, or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top when serving.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, adding both color and nutritional balance to your plate. Consider serving it with broccoli or green beans for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a pop of freshness.

For a heartier meal, you could incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the creamy sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more visually appealing. Just add them to the sauce when you’re building it, allowing them to cook until tender.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch up the protein, try using bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Simply adjust the cooking time as they may require a bit longer to reach the perfect texture—around 25 minutes of simmering in the sauce should do the trick. The added skin will contribute to a luscious thickness in the sauce.

For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. This substitution will still provide a creamy texture but with fewer calories. Just be careful not to boil the yogurt; stir it in at the end on low heat to prevent curdling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a lighter option.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition and color.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.