Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Home Plates

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe because it brings back so many fond memories of family dinners. The creamy texture of the chicken, combined with the fluffy mashed potatoes, creates a delightful harmony of flavors that warms the soul. As we prepare this dish, I find joy in the simple yet comforting ingredients, and it truly satisfies the craving for a hearty meal. It's become a go-to recipe for gatherings, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:25:35.069Z

When I first made this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish, I was taken aback by how easily it came together. I sautéed the chicken to golden perfection, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. The key tip I learned was to let the chicken rest before slicing, which keeps it juicy! The mashed potatoes, whipped with butter and cream, were so fluffy that they became the perfect base for this hearty meal.

Over time, I've experimented with the seasoning to enhance the chicken's flavor profile. Adding a hint of garlic and a splash of lemon juice brightens the whole dish. We always serve this meal with a simple green salad to balance the richness, making it a family favorite that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich chicken cooked to perfection
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are a comfort food staple
A hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Achieving the perfect creamy sauce is key to this dish. Once the chicken is cooked through and you’ve added the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir gently to incorporate the broth and cream, and allow the sauce to simmer briefly—about 5 minutes—until it thickens to your desired consistency. If you're in a hurry, a quick whisk can help bring the sauce together smoothly, preventing any lumps from forming.

For added depth of flavor, consider including a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. Allow it to reduce by half before adding the chicken; this enhances the sauce with a slight acidity that balances the richness of the cream. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

The technique for making fluffy mashed potatoes is crucial. After boiling the cubed potatoes, ensure you drain them completely—any residual water can make them gummy. I recommend returning the drained potatoes to the warm pot for a minute; this helps steam off excess moisture. When mashing, use a potato ricer or a hand masher for the best texture; avoid using a blender or food processor as they can lead to a gluey consistency.

For a twist on traditional mashed potatoes, try adding roasted garlic for a rich, savory flavor or a splash of sour cream for a tangy note. If you're looking for a lighter option, substituting Greek yogurt for some of the butter and milk can work well, giving the potatoes a creamy texture without overwhelming richness. Always taste and adjust seasoning just before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet, cooking until golden brown on both sides. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 20 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce thicken.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the water, then add butter and milk to the potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

On a plate, scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes and top it with the creamy chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some mushrooms to the chicken sauce or fresh herbs like thyme. For lighter mashed potatoes, you can substitute some of the cream with chicken broth.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish holds up well for leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve the creamy sauce, place chicken in an airtight container, ensuring it is well-covered to prevent drying out. Mashed potatoes, while they can be stored, may require some stirring in a little milk or cream when reheating to regain their smooth texture.

If you're considering making this a make-ahead meal, the components can be prepared separately. You can cook the chicken and sauce a day in advance, letting the flavors meld in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat—adding a touch of extra cream if necessary to maintain the ideal consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra touch, consider serving this dish alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or broccoli, which introduce a fresh crunch and balance the creaminess. You can also top the meal with sautéed mushrooms or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an indulgent finish that complements the flavors beautifully.

If you're looking to make this recipe fit various dietary needs, swapping the heavy cream with coconut milk creates a delightful dairy-free version while still providing a luscious texture. Additionally, using skin-on chicken thighs instead of breasts can add even more flavor and juiciness to the dish. These variations allow you to customize the recipe while keeping its comforting essence intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use skim milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter in the mashed potatoes.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and reheat gently before serving, adding a little milk if needed.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables complements this hearty meal nicely.