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: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love digging into a plate of creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly, especially on chilly days. When preparing this dish, I take my time to create a rich, velvety sauce that smothers tender chicken pieces and fluffy mashed potatoes. The combination of flavors and textures is truly satisfying, and it reminds me of cozy family dinners. Trust me, it's not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:37:34.362Z

When I first made this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe, I was amazed by how simple it was to elevate a classic comfort dish. The trick is to use a mix of chicken broth and cream to create a luscious sauce. I experimented with herbs, and a touch of thyme made all the difference!

Another tip I discovered is to use Yukon gold potatoes for the mash. They have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce. This dish has since become a regular in my home, bringing joy to not only me but my family as well!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy chicken simmered in a rich sauce
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are buttery and delicious
Perfectly seasoned for ultimate comfort
A dish that brings the whole family together

      

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what elevates the chicken in this dish, creating a rich and luscious mouthfeel. It's essential to use heavy cream for its thickness and ability to create that velvety texture. When simmering the mixture, keep an eye on the heat; too high, and the cream can curdle. Aim for a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken gradually. If your sauce isn't thickening as expected, a cornstarch slurry can be an effective fix—simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Don't rush the simmering process; letting the sauce bubble away for about 10 minutes helps develop the flavors further. The dried thyme not only adds a wonderful earthiness but also complements the chicken beautifully. If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider a splash of white wine after browning the chicken, allowing it to reduce before adding the broth and cream.

Mash Potatoes to Perfection

The key to achieving fluffy mashed potatoes lies in the cooking technique. After boiling the cubed Yukon gold potatoes for about 15 minutes, they should be fork-tender; you want to avoid overcooking them, as this can lead to a watery mash. Once drained, return them to the pot over low heat for a minute to evaporate any excess moisture. This added step ensures that the mashed potatoes remain light and airy, allowing the butter and cream to integrate seamlessly.

When mashing, I prefer using a potato masher for a rustic texture or a ricer for an ultra-smooth consistency. Add in the butter and cream gradually, mixing until you reach your preferred creaminess, and don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. If you're looking for a twist, you could incorporate roasted garlic or fresh herbs like chives for an extra layer of taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.

Brown on both sides and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add dried thyme and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and cream, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken and spoon the sauce generously over the mashed potatoes. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to your mashed potatoes. It enhances creaminess and adds a subtle umami flavor that is irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly comforting meal, serve this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with a side of steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The brightness of the greens not only adds color to your plate but also balances the richness of the dish. You can dress the veggies lightly in olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for an additional flavor boost.

Consider garnishing the chicken with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also freshens the dish with a hint of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of black pepper on top can also enhance the dish's presentation and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish makes for a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid separating the cream. Preparing the mashed potatoes in advance is also an option; simply store them covered in the fridge. Reheating them is best done with a splash of milk or cream to bring back their fluffy texture.

Freezing the dish is another alternative for meal prepping. However, I recommend freezing the chicken and sauce separate from the mashed potatoes, as potatoes can change texture when thawed. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat slowly before serving with freshly made mashed potatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for even cooking.

→ What other herbs can I use?

You can experiment with rosemary, parsley, or even basil to add different flavor profiles.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

To lighten it up, use low-fat cream or substitute some of the cream with yogurt. You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance. Just reheat them gently with a splash of cream to restore their texture.