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; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup milk (or more as needed)

Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites

I absolutely love making this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish on chilly nights. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that fills both the belly and the heart. The tender chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce complements the fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes perfectly. Whenever friends or family visit, this recipe always becomes a favorite. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:41:34.772Z

When I first tried making this creamy chicken dish, I never imagined how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The secret lies in seasoning each layer carefully, from the chicken to the mashed potatoes. By letting the chicken simmer in a savory broth with onions and garlic, every bite bursts with warmth and comfort. I often make a double batch to ensure leftovers for the next day!

The mashed potatoes are just as important; I learned that adding a touch of sour cream elevates their creaminess and flavor. Mixing them right before serving keeps them light and fluffy. Trust me, this meal is great for sharing and guaranteed to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes
Comfort food at its finest for chilly evenings
Perfectly seasoned chicken that’s easy to prepare

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial for elevating the flavors of the creamy chicken in this dish. While salt and pepper are essential, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add brightness at the end. The dried thyme used in this recipe brings an earthy, aromatic depth, enhancing the overall taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for warmth and a subtle kick; just make sure to adjust the salt accordingly!

When pan-searing the chicken, aim for a golden brown color, which not only adds visual appeal but also develops a richer flavor. To avoid undercooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes afterward allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.

Making Perfect Mashed Potatoes

For creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes, avoid over-mashing, as this can create a gluey texture. Instead, use a potato masher or a ricer for a smoother consistency, and fold in the butter and sour cream until just combined. For extra richness, I often add roasted garlic or cream cheese. If you want to keep things dairy-free, you can substitute almond milk and a dairy-free spread without compromising too much on flavor.

Adjusting the milk in your mashed potatoes is key; start with 1/4 cup as recommended, but add more slowly until you achieve your desired creaminess. Be aware that letting them sit can lead to thickening, so you may need to reheat and stir in extra milk or broth when serving to bring them back to life.

Serving and Storage Tips

This dish looks delightful when plated, so don’t skip garnishing! Fresh herbs sprinkled on top of the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes can elevate the visual appeal. Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables for a pop of color on the plate. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for mopping up the delectable sauce; it complements the dish beautifully.

If you have leftovers, let the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring to an airtight container; they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. For the mashed potatoes, whipping in some extra milk while reheating will also help achieve the perfect texture again.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup milk (or more as needed)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they're golden brown. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and thyme. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and allow to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Mash with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Add milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve It Up

Plate the creamy chicken alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle some of the sauce over the top for added flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots to the chicken for extra nutrition. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce.

Ingredient Variations

If you want to switch up the flavor profile, consider using different proteins such as turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative for a lighter dish. Thicker dairy options like half-and-half can replace heavy cream, but remember that this will slightly alter the creaminess. You could also incorporate mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

For a lighter side, swap the regular potatoes for cauliflower. Simply steam the cauliflower until tender, then mash just like you would with potatoes, using similar ingredients for a creamy consistency. This substitutions keep the comfort food essence while adding extra veggies to your meal.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the chicken in a single layer helps achieve an even sear, so avoid overcrowding the skillet. If cooking for a crowd, consider using two skillets or cooking in batches. Use a sauté pan with high sides to prevent spattering, especially when simmering the sauce after adding the cream for a smooth finish.

For the mashed potatoes, ensure they are cut into evenly sized chunks before boiling. This allows for uniform cooking and avoids some pieces being overcooked while others remain firm. An immediate rinse with cold water after draining stops the cooking process, preserving the desired texture.

Creating a Make-Ahead Meal

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat the chicken gently before serving, which allows the flavors to meld even further, enhancing the dish's overall taste.

For mashed potatoes, you can prepare them in advance, refrigerating them after mashing. When reheating, it’s best to add a touch of cream or milk to maintain that fluffy, creamy consistency. This makes it an excellent option for busy weekdays while still enjoying the comforts of home-cooked food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a richer flavor and stay moister during cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them on the stove. Just make the mashed potatoes fresh when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Green beans, broccoli, or a simple side salad work great alongside this comforting meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.