Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Family Meals

I absolutely love the combination of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes; it feels like a warm hug on a plate! This dish has been a family favorite for years, providing the perfect balance of rich flavors and comforting textures. As the chicken simmers in a savory sauce, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it impossible not to feel at home. I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s surprisingly easy to make, yet it delivers a delicious meal that everyone will adore.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:49:34.481Z

When I first tackled this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The secret lies in using quality chicken and letting it cook slowly in the creamy sauce. Over the years, I have played with different herbs and spices, but I always come back to the classic seasoning that ensures every bite is flavorful.

One tip I can share is to use a potato masher for the mashed potatoes. It gives a creamy consistency without turning them into glue. I often add a touch of garlic for an extra layer of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe:
Creamy chicken infused with herbs that warm the soul
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are irresistibly buttery
Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings

Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The key to achieving that luxurious creamy sauce is to scan for the right consistency as you cook. After introducing the chicken broth, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and concentrate the flavors for about 10 minutes. This initial simmer allows the broth to develop a rich base, drawing out the savory essence of the chicken and aromatics. Once you add the heavy cream, stir gently and allow the sauce to thicken—you're looking for a texture that coats the back of a spoon beautifully.

Don't rush the thickening process; it usually takes around 5 minutes after adding the heavy cream. If your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, you can increase the heat slightly. Conversely, if it starts to bubble vigorously, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, preventing the cream from curdling. The addition of thyme not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

For truly fluffy mashed potatoes, the choice of potatoes matters. Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds work best; they yield a lighter texture compared to waxy potatoes. Once you've boiled the cubed potatoes in salted water, don’t over-mash them—this can lead to a gummy consistency. Instead, use a potato masher or a ricer for the fluffiest results, mashing until just smooth before incorporating butter and milk for richness.

Adjusting the quantity of milk can change the texture of your mashed potatoes. Start with 1/2 cup and gradually add more if needed. The potatoes should be creamy but still hold some structure. A good tip is to warm the milk before adding it; this helps the ingredients meld seamlessly, resulting in a dish that’s creamy and inviting without being overly runny.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this comforting dish:

For the Creamy Chicken:

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

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt to taste

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful dinner:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and let cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, allowing the sauce to thicken for another 5 minutes.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them, then mash with butter and milk until smooth. Adjust the salt to taste.

Serve

Spoon the creamy chicken over the mashed potatoes, and enjoy your comforting meal!

Feel free to top with fresh herbs for an added touch!

Pro Tips

Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

While creamy chicken and mashed potatoes are delightful on their own, consider adding a side of sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, for a pop of color and nutrition. A simple herb garnish like chopped parsley can elevate both presentation and flavor, offering a fresh contrast to the rich chicken and potato dish. Serving this meal in shallow bowls can help retain the comforting warmth of the creamy sauce.

For a bit more excitement, you might add a sprinkle of grated cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, on top of the creamy chicken before serving. This extra dimension of flavor complements the dish beautifully, creating a more robust taste experience. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a hint of sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook the chicken and the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the mashed potatoes, you can also prepare them in advance; just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken on the stove and mash the potatoes again, adding a splash of milk to revive their creaminess.

If you prefer a freezer-friendly option, both the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes can be frozen separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating them together on low heat. Just add a little extra cream to the chicken sauce if it thickens too much during storage. These strategies save time for busy weeknights while still delivering a warm, homemade meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully as they are juicier and more forgiving when cooked.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and use cornstarch to thicken the sauce instead of any flour.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and reheat them on the stovetop with a little extra milk to loosen them.