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; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Cozy Cooking

I believe there's nothing quite like the comforting combination of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes on a rainy day. When I first made this dish, I was transported back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom would whip it up as a special treat. The rich, savory sauce enveloping the tender chicken pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes, creating a warm embrace of flavors. It’s a reminder of home and a dish I love sharing with friends and family, especially during cozy get-togethers.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:13:34.216Z

During my culinary explorations, I discovered that the secret to a truly creamy chicken dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures. I usually sear the chicken until golden brown to lock in juices, and then simmer it in a savory broth enriched with cream. This technique not only ensures the chicken remains tender but also creates a delightful sauce that complements the dish.

As for the mashed potatoes, I recommend using a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes for the best texture. The buttery finish enhances the overall experience, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary comfort food classic. Every bite feels like a hug!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops perfectly cooked chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
A meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, bringing together rich flavors that elevate each bite of chicken. Using heavy cream not only thickens the sauce but also adds a luxurious texture that complements the chicken perfectly. When you add the cream, it should be stirred in gently but thoroughly to avoid scorching. Keep the heat on low after adding it to prevent boiling, which can lead to separation.

Fresh herbs, especially thyme, are crucial for enhancing the sauce's flavor profile. If you don't have dried thyme, you can substitute it with fresh thyme leaves, using about three times the amount, as fresh herbs tend to be milder in flavor. For a twist, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth for an elevated taste, allowing it to simmer away for a few minutes before adding the cream.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

Achieving fluffy mashed potatoes hinges on the right type of potato. Starchy potatoes, such as Russets or Yukon Golds, are ideal for creating that light, airy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, like red potatoes, as they can lead to a gluey consistency. For the best results, once boiled until tender, let the drained potatoes sit in the pot for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture before mashing.

While mashing, I recommend using a potato ricer or a hand masher for an ultra-smooth finish. Over-mixing can produce a gummy texture, so aim for just enough pressure to break down the potatoes. For additional flavor, experiment by infusing the milk with roasted garlic or adding cream cheese to the mix for an extra layer of richness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

For the Creamy Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Once you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes:

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and thyme.

Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken and sauce. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to the mashed potatoes.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing for a gathering or simply want to enjoy this recipe during a busy week, both the creamy chicken and the mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of additional chicken broth to maintain creaminess.

For the mashed potatoes, consider making them up to a day in advance. Store them in a tightly sealed container in the fridge, reheating them with a bit of milk and butter on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore their creamy texture. If they seem dry, just whisk in more liquid gradually, taking care not to overmix.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, you can enhance your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, which provide a vibrant contrast to the dish's richness. A fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can also add a refreshing balance, making the meal feel complete.

To elevate the dining experience further, consider garnishing your creamy chicken with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but infuses an additional layer of flavor that can enhance the entire plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken will work, but you might need to increase the cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.