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: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics

We all crave comfort food from time to time, and this creamy chicken with mashed potatoes really hits the spot. I love how the richness of the chicken gravy blends perfectly with the buttery mashed potatoes, creating a dish that's both satisfying and indulgent. What’s great is how quickly I can whip this up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a cozy family dinner. It’s a hug in a bowl that I cannot resist.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.736Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how comforting it felt. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken, making each bite a joy. It's a family favorite that has been passed down and even modified a bit to suit our tastes. I discovered that simmering the chicken with herbs infuses flavor, turning a simple dish into something special.

One tip I learned along the way is to use Yukon Gold potatoes for the mash—they have the perfect creamy texture. Adding a hint of garlic and a splash of cream can elevate the mash to a whole new level. Now, it’s my go-to dish for guests or just a relaxed night in.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy chicken that is full of flavor
Buttery mashed potatoes that complement the dish beautifully
Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion

Perfecting the Creamy Chicken

Selecting the right chicken breasts is crucial for achieving a juicy and flavorful dish. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe since they cook evenly and absorb the savory flavors of the creamy sauce. Be sure to sear them over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they're golden brown with a slight char. This step not only enhances their flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy throughout the cooking process.

When you add the heavy cream to the chicken broth, it's essential to maintain a gentle simmer. Too much heat can cause the cream to split, ruining the sauce's smooth texture. Stir frequently and let it thicken for about 5 minutes; you'll know it's ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Adding the chicken back into the skillet allows it to soak in the richness of the sauce, creating a heavenly combination.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent choice for mashing due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture. Make sure to peel and cube them uniformly for even cooking; large cubes will take longer than smaller ones to become tender. Boil them in salted water until they're fork-tender, which usually takes around 15 minutes. This prevents them from being watery once mashed, ensuring a perfect consistency.

When mashing, it's important to add your butter and milk gradually. Start with the butter, letting it melt into the hot potatoes before adding the milk. This step helps achieve a creamy, glossy finish without lumps. If you enjoy a bit of garlic flavor, adding minced garlic while mashing will enhance the overall taste by bringing in a subtle warmth that complements the creamy chicken really well.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

For the Creamy Chicken

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Steps to Prepare Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot. Add butter, milk, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with creamy chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy this cozy meal!

Enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy texture of this dish with your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before serving. You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots into the sauce for extra nutrition.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables to the creamy chicken sauce. Mushrooms, spinach, or even carrots can be sautéed in the skillet after cooking the chicken. This not only boosts the nutritional value but adds color and texture, making your dish more visually appealing. Just sauté the vegetables until tender, then follow up with the chicken broth and cream as per the recipe.

If you're looking for a healthier version, consider substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. This will reduce calories while still providing a creamy texture. However, be sure to adjust the cooking method slightly by adding these alternatives at the end of the cooking process to prevent curdling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce, storing them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The mashed potatoes can also be made ahead of time; just reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture.

If you're planning to freeze this dish, I'd recommend freezing the creamy chicken separately from the mashed potatoes. The chicken can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist. If the mashed potatoes seem dry after freezing, mix in a little butter or cream during reheating for that fresh taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay tender during cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Green beans or a fresh garden salad are great sides to balance the meal.