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 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup butter; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort on a Plate

I absolutely love how this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to my kitchen. Every bite feels like a cozy hug, reminding me of family gatherings and chilly evenings. This dish combines tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce served over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up in about an hour, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:45:34.582Z

One chilly evening, I decided to experiment with some chicken I had in the fridge. I wanted something that would be both comforting and filling, and that’s when I came up with this creamy chicken dish. The key is in allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce, making it incredibly tender while infusing it with flavor.

The mashed potatoes are equally as important: creamy, buttery, and rich. I make them using freshly boiled potatoes combined with heavy cream and a touch of garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, the combination is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops the chicken in flavor
Silky smooth mashed potatoes that complement every bite
Quick yet indulgent, perfect for any weeknight dinner

Key Techniques for Creamy Chicken

To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, it's important to let the chicken simmer in the broth and cream low and slow. This method not only allows the chicken to absorb the flavors but also gives the sauce time to thicken. I recommend keeping the heat at a medium-low setting. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon without running off quickly. If the sauce isn't thickening as desired, consider adding a cornstarch slurry made from equal parts water and cornstarch to boost its thickness.

One key ingredient in this recipe is the heavy cream. It contributes to the luxurious texture and rich flavor of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half or even a mix of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. Just be aware that these substitutions may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes

For the ultimate silky smooth mashed potatoes, I find using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds works best. These varieties yield a fluffier texture when mashed. Be sure to boil the potatoes until they're fork-tender, about 15 minutes, and avoid overcooking them, as this can make them gummy. A tip I swear by is to return the drained potatoes to the hot pot for a minute after draining to steam off excess moisture, ensuring your mash remains fluffy.

When mashing, if you prefer a chunky texture, you can opt for a potato masher instead of a ricer. If you like your mashed potatoes extra creamy, feel free to increase the butter and cream proportions—up to 1/3 cup of butter and 3/4 cup of cream can elevate the richness to new heights. Just remember to taste frequently to adjust the salt for that perfect balance.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add heavy cream and butter, then mash until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with the creamy chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy chicken sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes pairs wonderfully with seasonal vegetables. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts make a great side dish, adding a pop of color and nutrition. For a delightful twist, consider topping your dish with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for additional layers of flavor.

If you’re looking to add some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the creamy sauce can provide a nice kick. Alternatively, for a touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For busy weeknights, you can prepare the creamy chicken ahead of time. Once cooked, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through; this prevents the cream from separating.

Mashed potatoes can also be made ahead of time. Cool and store them in the fridge, then reheat with a splash of cream and a little butter to restore their creamy consistency before serving. For longer storage, consider freezing the mashed potatoes in portions; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure to cook them thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

→ What if I want to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk option, and use less butter in the mashed potatoes.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the creamy chicken ahead of time and reheat it. The mashed potatoes can be made fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Green beans or a simple garden salad make great accompaniments to this comforting dish.