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: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Warm & Comforting Meals

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes whenever I crave something warm and satisfying. This dish combines tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. It's the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests. The flavors and textures work in harmony, creating a dish that's both hearty and indulgent. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy to your table.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:30:35.137Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to replicate the comforting flavors of my grandmother's kitchen. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a creamy sauce and the smoothest mashed potatoes has a way of evoking nostalgia. I realized that using a good quality chicken broth makes all the difference in enriching the flavors.

I also learned that adding just a touch of cream cheese to the mashed potatoes takes them from ordinary to extraordinary. It brings a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken. This dish is perfect for gathering around the dinner table with loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy chicken that melts in your mouth
Buttery mashed potatoes that are the perfect side
An ultimate comfort dish that warms the heart
Simple ingredients that pack a delicious punch

      

Essential Techniques for Creamy Chicken

To achieve the tender, flavorful chicken in this recipe, be sure to use high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. When seasoning, don't be shy with salt and pepper; this will enhance the overall flavor. Cooking the chicken for about 6 minutes per side over medium heat allows it to develop a beautiful golden crust while ensuring it remains juicy inside. If your skillet is not large enough for the chicken to lay flat, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can steam the chicken instead of searing it.

The key to a luscious sauce lies in the deglazing process. After sautéing the onions and garlic, scrape the bottom of the skillet well to release those flavorful, browned bits. These bits add depth to the sauce, transforming it from simple cream to something extraordinary. When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat low to avoid scorching it, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens to a desirable consistency, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

Mastering Mashed Potatoes

Choosing the right potatoes makes all the difference in your mashed potatoes. Russets are ideal for this recipe because they have a high starch content, resulting in light, fluffy mash. When boiling the potatoes, make sure to cut them into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. A gentle boil is best—too vigorous, and they can break apart and become gummy, so aim for a rolling boil over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until a fork easily slides through.

Incorporating cream cheese into your mashed potatoes not only adds richness but also a slight tang that beautifully complements the creamy chicken. If you want a lighter option, substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt. Be sure to mash the potatoes thoroughly but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a gluey texture. Serve the potatoes immediately for the best texture, but if needed, you can keep them warm on low heat with a bit of extra milk added to maintain creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste

With your ingredients ready, you’re set to cook up a comforting meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful cooking experience:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet, cooking for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Once it’s simmering, stir in the heavy cream and thyme, letting it cook for a few minutes to thicken.

Cook the Potatoes

While the sauce is thickening, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.

Mash the Potatoes

Add butter, cream cheese, and milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Serve alongside a generous portion of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Enjoy your comforting meal with friends or family!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or chives into your mashed potatoes before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish is excellent for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, consider separating the chicken from the mashed potatoes before refrigerating. When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. For the mashed potatoes, reheat them in a pot over low heat, stirring in a bit of milk or cream to revive their creaminess.

If you want to freeze this dish, it's best to freeze the components separately. The chicken can be frozen in the sauce, but the mashed potatoes may become grainy after thawing. If you decide to freeze them, make sure to wrap the potatoes tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw both components overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your comfort food experience, consider garnishing your creamy chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish. A side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, can provide a nice contrast in texture and a dash of color on the plate.

If you're looking to add a twist to the flavors, try incorporating some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the creamy sauce towards the end of cooking. These ingredients add more depth of flavor and nutrients, transforming the dish into a more robust meal while also providing variety for your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed and cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of whole milk with a bit of cornstarch as a thickener if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance. Simply reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk if they become too thick.

→ What sides go well with creamy chicken and mashed potatoes?

Steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even garlic bread pair wonderfully with this dish for a complete meal.