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: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love whipping up this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish on a cozy evening. It’s comforting, hearty, and fills my kitchen with amazing aromas. The tender chicken combined with creamy mashed potatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe has become a favorite go-to when I want something delicious that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s pretty simple to prepare and always leaves me satisfied and craving seconds!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:33:34.646Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was determined to create a meal that would bring warmth and joy to my family. The secret lies in using fresh herbs and seasoning the chicken perfectly, making each bite bursting with flavor. While cooking, I learned that allowing the mashed potatoes to absorb some of the chicken gravy enhances their creaminess.

Over time, I’ve perfected the balance between the tender chicken and the rich, velvety mashed potatoes. Adding a hint of garlic and a touch of cream transforms this meal into a dream! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe has become a staple that we all look forward to.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and flavorful combination that warms the soul
Easy to whip up in just 45 minutes
Perfect for sharing with family and friends

      

The Heart of the Dish: Chicken

The chicken in this dish is not just a protein; it becomes the star of the show through the rich sauce created during cooking. Combining chicken broth with heavy cream allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a velvety texture. Make sure to monitor the heat level; you want a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil, which can toughen the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked perfectly every time.

If you find yourself short on chicken breasts, boneless thighs work as a delicious substitute. Their higher fat content can add even more richness to the sauce. Additionally, the thyme adds an aromatic quality to the dish—feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different herbal note. Just be cautious with stronger flavors as they can overpower the creamy base.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect mashed potatoes involves more than just boiling and mashing; it requires timing and technique. After boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, let them sit for a few minutes to steam off excess moisture. This prevents your mashed potatoes from becoming watery and allows for a more creamy consistency when you add the milk and butter. I always recommend using a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth texture if you have one.

For those looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half of the butter with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This not only reduces calories but also introduces a subtle tang that complements the savory chicken. Additionally, adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes can elevate the flavors significantly—simply roast a bulb alongside the chicken for an aromatic twist.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a wonderful meal:

For the Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brown each side of the chicken for about 5 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and add dried thyme. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until creamy.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken with a generous portion of mashed potatoes. Drizzle the chicken gravy over the potatoes and enjoy!

Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of the mashed potatoes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider adding a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the chicken and potatoes. For a more rustic vibe, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy; your guests will appreciate the gesture as they enjoy their meal.

Don’t hesitate to play with the plate presentation! A light sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the finished dish not only adds color but enhances the appeal. The brightness from the herbs will visually lift the creaminess of the dish, making it even more enticing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers to maintain texture. The chicken and sauce can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days while the mashed potatoes are best consumed within 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken on the stove with a splash of broth, ensuring it doesn’t dry out, while the mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave with a touch of milk to restore creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze both components. The chicken and sauce freeze exceptionally well, and can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed. Mashed potatoes can be tricky in texture post-freezing but mixing in a bit of cream can revive their silky consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as skin-on chicken may take longer to cook.

→ Is there a lighter version of the mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or even chicken broth for a lighter mash.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs nicely with this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes in advance. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.