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: 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 4 oz cream cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely love the combination of creamy chicken with fluffy mashed potatoes. This recipe brings a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of cozy family dinners. The joy of cooking this dish in my kitchen always delights me. As the chicken simmers and the aroma fills the air, I can almost hear the laughter of loved ones gathered around the table. The rich texture of the sauce perfectly complements the buttery potatoes, creating a meal that warms both the body and soul.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:57:37.183Z

While experimenting with various chicken recipes, I stumbled upon a creamy sauce that completely transformed the dish. The key is to let the chicken slowly absorb the flavors from the herbs and spices, which enhances its natural juices. I remember the first time I served this to my friends; the clean plates spoke volumes!

To make the mashed potatoes truly decadent, I add a touch of cream cheese along with the butter. It’s an unexpected twist that I adore. Next time you make it, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor and smooth texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy chicken that melts in your mouth
Fluffy mashed potatoes with a rich flavor
Perfect for cozy family gatherings or weeknight dinners

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

Achieving the perfect balance in the creamy sauce is crucial for this dish. When you bring the chicken broth and heavy cream to a simmer, watch for small bubbles forming along the edges of the skillet. This indicates that it’s hot enough to allow the flavors to meld without curdling the cream. An important tip is to taste and adjust the seasoning after the sauce simmers for a few minutes; the heat can intensify flavors, and a pinch of salt or dash of pepper can elevate it.

For those looking to infuse additional flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the chicken but before adding the broth. This can deepen the sauce’s profile. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream alternative, but note that this may slightly alter the sauce's richness.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

The choice of Yukon Gold potatoes plays a significant role in achieving a creamy texture for your mashed potatoes. Their natural buttery flavor makes them perfect for this recipe. When boiling, ensure that the potatoes are cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. If you encounter lumps while mashing, a potato ricer can help you achieve that smooth consistency that pairs so well with the creamy chicken.

For added flavor, you can incorporate roasted garlic or chives into the mashed potatoes. If you find that your potatoes are too dry after mashing, a little extra milk or butter can be added gradually until the desired creaminess is achieved. Keep the mashed potatoes warm over low heat while finishing the chicken, preventing them from cooling down before serving.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
4 oz cream cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to get any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the sauce flavors.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the butter, cream cheese, and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, serve it over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle with the creamy sauce from the skillet and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your comfort meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before cooking. This will make the chicken even more tender and juicy.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers. The chicken can last up to three days in the refrigerator, while the mashed potatoes can remain fresh for about four days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet for the chicken; gently heat on medium-low until warm, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

For mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk or butter when reheating to restore their creamy consistency. Place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without compromising texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli, which add a pop of color and nutrition. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the main dish. For an extra touch, consider topping the chicken with crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for texture and enhanced flavor.

Feel free to customize the dish by adding different herbs to the creamy sauce. Fresh thyme or rosemary can bring an aromatic quality, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. For a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the flavors harmonious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it should be thawed completely before starting the recipe to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using skinless chicken thighs, low-fat dairy alternatives, and reducing the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

Green beans or steamed broccoli are excellent sides that complement the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes.