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: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Delights

When I crave a comforting meal, nothing beats creamy chicken paired with buttery mashed potatoes. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, combining tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that envelops each bite. Preparing it brings me joy, as I watch the ingredients transform into a heartwarming feast. I love serving it on chilly nights or whenever I need a gentle reminder of home-cooked goodness. Join me as I take you through this delightful recipe that warms both the heart and the soul.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.602Z

During my first attempt at making this dish, I discovered that the secret to a creamy sauce is in incorporating flavorful broth gradually. As the chicken simmered, my kitchen filled with wonderful aromas, and I couldn’t wait to taste the results. The moment I served it with mashed potatoes and saw everyone’s smiles was pure bliss.

Over the years, I found that using Yukon Gold potatoes yields the creamiest mashed potatoes, especially when combined with a generous pat of butter and a splash of cream. This dish is not just about chicken and potatoes; it's about creating memories, making it the perfect meal for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, flavorful sauce that elevates simple chicken to new heights
Fluffy mashed potatoes that perfectly absorb the rich sauce
Quick and easy preparation, great for weeknight dinners

Key Techniques for Perfect Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts, it's essential to use a meat thermometer. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is not only safe to eat but also remains juicy and tender. If you prefer a golden crust, consider searing the chicken without moving it for the first few minutes; this enhances the browning and flavor.

Another useful tip is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when you slice into the chicken. While the chicken rests, you can start making the sauce, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly for serving.

Understanding the Sauce's Flavor Profile

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, elevating the chicken with its rich flavor. Using heavy cream not only adds creaminess but also balances the savory notes from the chicken broth. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be substituted for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich and thick.

Seasoning the sauce with garlic and onion powder adds depth without the need for chopping. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. The sauce should be simmered just enough to thicken; a visual cue is when it coats the back of a spoon. If it thickens too much, a splash of additional chicken broth can help adjust the consistency.

Mashing the Potatoes: The Right Technique

For the perfect mashed potatoes, it’s crucial not to overwork them. Use a potato masher or a ricer for a fluffy texture. If you use a food processor, be careful not to overblend as this can make the potatoes gluey. After boiling, let them steam for a minute or two before mashing; this helps remove excess moisture, leading to creamier potatoes.

Adding room-temperature butter and cream also facilitates a smooth mix. If you're planning to make the mashed potatoes ahead of time, keep them warm in a slow cooker with a bit of cream stirred in. Just before serving, give them a quick stir for a fresh taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and scrape the bottom to deglaze. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Mash the Potatoes

Peel and cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Serve it over the creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers. This adds a depth that complements the chicken beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist during reheating, place a small amount of chicken broth in the microwave-safe container or cover it with a damp paper towel, which helps maintain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Place portions in airtight containers, and try to flatten the mashed potatoes on top before sealing to diminish air pockets, which can lead to freezer burn. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your meal, consider pairing this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with a simple side salad. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. You can also add steamed vegetables for a pop of color and additional nutrients.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish just before serving. It adds not only visual appeal but also an extra layer of flavor. I find that a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken can brighten the overall taste, making it even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

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

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them just before serving.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won't be as rich and creamy.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would complement this dish nicely.