Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Homestyle Cooking

I absolutely adore this recipe for Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes. It warms my heart and fills my stomach in the most satisfying way. The creamy chicken sauce paired with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes creates an irresistible plate of comfort. Whenever I need a hug in food form, I turn to this easy dish. It's perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table. Let me show you how to make this delightful meal that everyone will love!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:33:34.802Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; I was craving something hearty after a long day. The creamy sauce, reminiscent of my grandmother's cooking, instantly transported me back to my childhood. I knew the secret to this recipe was in allowing the chicken to simmer gently with the herbs before adding the cream. This not only infuses flavor but also creates a rich, velvety texture that is simply divine.

Another tip I found useful is to use starchy potatoes for the mash, as they create that perfect creamy consistency. I often add a hint of garlic and a splash of milk for extra flavor. Everyone who tries this dish ends up asking for the recipe, and it’s heartwarming to see how much joy it brings to my family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of chicken.
Fluffy mashed potatoes that serve as the perfect base.
Simple ingredients that come together for a comforting meal.

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Chicken

The key to achieving a flavorful creamy chicken lies in properly cooking the chicken breast. When sautéing, make sure your skillet is adequately heated to medium; an under-heated pan will cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. You want the chicken to develop a golden crust, which adds depth to the overall flavor. If using a meat thermometer, look for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Another vital step is incorporating the aromatics effectively. Adding the chopped onion and minced garlic after browning the chicken not only infuses the oil with their flavors but also helps to caramelize them. Cook these ingredients until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This small detail contributes significantly to the sauce's overall taste.

Mastering the Sauce

To achieve the desired consistency in your creamy sauce, patience is essential when simmering. After adding the chicken broth, allow it to simmer for a full five minutes before you introduce the heavy cream. This step helps concentrate the flavors in the broth. Once you add the cream, reduce the heat, as high temperatures can cause cream to curdle. Stir occasionally while it thickens—after about 10 minutes, you should see a rich, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.

Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning as the sauce simmers; sometimes, a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavor profile significantly. You can also experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist or substitute half of the heavy cream with sour cream or cream cheese for a tangy touch.

Perfectly Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes are light and fluffy, start with the right type of potatoes. Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal due to their starchy texture. Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform cubes to guarantee even cooking. Boil them in salted water until they're tender—about 15 minutes is usually sufficient. Test by piercing with a fork; if it goes through easily, they're ready for mashing.

When mashing, I recommend using a ricer or a potato masher for the best results. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as they can lead to gummy mashed potatoes. Once mashed, incorporate warm milk and melted butter for a creamy finish. Season generously with salt and pepper. If you prefer, add roasted garlic or cream cheese for additional flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

For the Creamy Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Once you have all of these ingredients, you'll be ready to prepare a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken dish with mashed potatoes:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce thicken for about 10 minutes.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

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

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy your comforting meal!

Now that you've completed all the steps, it's time to dig in and enjoy this comforting dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering, or mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a colorful, balanced meal. I often opt for broccoli or green beans, which add a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy chicken and potatoes. You could also serve it with crusty bread on the side to soak up the extra sauce, making for an indulgent dining experience.

For a heartier variation, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the creamy chicken sauce during the simmering phase. This not only increases the dish's nutritional value but also enhances its flavor profile, adding earthy undertones from the mushrooms or a slight sweetness from the spinach.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers. This helps maintain the texture of both components. The creamy chicken can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge, while the potatoes typically keep for about 2-3 days. Before reheating, consider adding a splash of milk to the potatoes to revive their creaminess, and gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

For longer storage, both components can be frozen. Freeze the chicken in a tight-sealing container or freezer bag for up to 3 months; the mashed potatoes can also be frozen but may require additional liquid when reheated. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.

Variations to Try

To give this dish a new flavor twist, you can easily incorporate different spices or herbs depending on your preference. Try adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a slight heat or rosemary for a more aromatic experience. For a Mediterranean flair, tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes and olives can add an intriguing taste twist that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce.

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, consider substituting the heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt. While the texture will differ slightly, both options can still yield a deliciously creamy result while cutting calories. You can also use cooked shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, or turkey for a quicker, ready-to-go option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them with a little extra milk when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple mixed green salad for a balanced meal.