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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe because it brings back so many warm memories of family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce paired with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes creates a dish that's both satisfying and heartwarming. Whenever I make this meal, not only do I enjoy the process, but I also appreciate how delighted my loved ones are when they take their first bite. It's the ultimate comfort food that never fails to impress.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:21:34.820Z

I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time it feels like I’m serving a big hug on a plate. The creamy sauce is the secret weapon here; it’s made using a blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, which creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. I also like to sauté some garlic and onion before adding the chicken, as it infuses the entire dish with an aromatic base.

The mashed potatoes are where my heart truly lies. I use a mix of Yukon gold and russet potatoes for the perfect balance of creaminess and texture. Be sure to whip them while they are hot and add plenty of butter and cream for that indulgent finish. Trust me, they’ll become the highlight of your meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly
Comforting mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
Easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

When cooking the chicken, it's crucial to achieve a golden brown color on each side. This not only enhances the flavor through caramelization but also gives the dish an appealing presentation. Keep the heat medium to avoid burning; if needed, adjust slightly downwards. Cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side typically works well, but always double-check your chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Using a large skillet is ideal as it allows ample space to sear the chicken without overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. If your skillet is overcrowded, you may need to cook the chicken in batches. I prefer to use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution, making it easier to achieve those golden edges.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

The beauty of the creamy sauce lies in its simplicity and richness, which comes from the combination of heavy cream and chicken broth. Once you stir in the heavy cream, keep the sauce simmering at low heat to allow it to thicken without separating. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even texture. If the sauce isn't thickening as desired after 10 minutes, increase the heat slightly but keep a close eye on it.

Adjusting the seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can complement the dish beautifully. If you're looking for a bit of tang, a splash of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the sauce and balance the richness. Remember, taste as you go!

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

For the mashed potatoes, using a combination of Yukon gold and russet potatoes gives you a creamy texture with just the right amount of fluff. Yukon golds add a buttery flavor, while russets contribute lightness. After boiling them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes, draining them well ensures your mash isn't watery. Excess moisture can lead to a gluey texture, so I always let them steam for a minute in the pot after draining.

When mashing, using a potato ricer or a food mill yields the smoothest results. If you prefer a chunkier texture, a traditional masher works well, but be cautious not to over-mash, which can cause the potatoes to become gummy. Incorporating the butter and cream while the potatoes are still warm allows them to absorb the flavors better, resulting in a richer, more satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

For the Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, cook the potatoes in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Serve the chicken over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, drizzling some creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce. This recipe is great for meal prep
just store the chicken and potatoes separately in the fridge for up to three days and reheat when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed green vegetables such as broccoli or green beans, which not only adds color to your plate but also brings a nice crunch that complements the creaminess of the chicken and potatoes. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also work well to brighten up the meal.

For an extra comforting experience, consider topping your mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, that can melt into the warm potatoes. This additional layer of richness can elevate the dish even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning ahead, both the chicken and mashed potatoes can be prepared in advance. You can cook the chicken and creamy sauce a day prior, then simply reheat it on low heat before serving to ensure it remains tender and flavorful. If you do reheat in the microwave, do so in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

The mashed potatoes can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them with a splash of cream or milk to maintain their creamy texture. For long-term options, both the chicken and sauce freeze well for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with dates for easy use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, the creamy sauce can become too thick if cooked too long. If this happens, gradually whisk in a bit more chicken broth or heavy cream until you achieve the desired consistency. A pinch of salt or a dash of white pepper can help enhance the flavor if needed after adding more liquid.

If your mashed potatoes turn out gummy, it often indicates they were overworked. To salvage, you can try folding in a bit more warm milk or cream while gently mixing, but be cautious not to continue mashing. This can help create a smoother mouthfeel without further breakdown of the potato starches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if necessary.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Consider using less butter and opting for a low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just place in an airtight container for up to 3 months.