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 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 heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meals

When I think of comfort food, creamy chicken and mashed potatoes top my list. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the rich, savory flavors mingling together on a chilly evening. I love how the chicken simmers in a creamy sauce, and pairing it with fluffy mashed potatoes creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. On busy weeknights or during special gatherings, this recipe becomes my go-to for delicious, nourishing meals that bring everyone to the table.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:02:35.472Z

Every time I make this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes, I’m reminded of family dinners growing up. It’s a dish that requires a bit of patience but totally pays off. The key is to let the chicken cook slowly in the cream; it not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat incredibly tender. I like to use fresh herbs for an aromatic touch, which elevates the comfort experience.

One specific tip that I find essential is mashing the potatoes with a mix of butter and cream. It creates an incredibly smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken sauce. When done right, each bite encapsulates the essence of home-cooked love, making any occasion special.

You Will Love This Recipe Because:
Silky creamy sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes made rich with cream and butter
Hearty and filling meal ideal for family gatherings

Understanding the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, providing both moisture and flavor to the chicken. Using heavy cream is essential because it gives the sauce that silky texture, which clings to the chicken beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and may require a thickening agent. Always allow the sauce to simmer gently; a rapid boil can result in separation and a grainy texture.

Incorporating dried thyme adds an aromatic depth to the sauce, but feel free to experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or basil. Fresh herbs can brighten the dish even more; just adjust the amount since they can be more potent. To elevate the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering, which will introduce acidity and complexity. Just remember to cook off the alcohol before adding the cream.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

For the best mashed potatoes, choosing the right type of potato is key. Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold produce a creamy texture that's ideal for this dish. After boiling, drain the potatoes thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make your mash watery. I recommend returning them to the stovetop for a minute to evaporate any remaining water before mashing. This small step helps achieve that fluffy consistency everyone loves.

When mashing, don’t be afraid to use a potato ricer or food mill for an ultra-smooth result. If you prefer a chunkier mash, a simple hand masher will do the trick. Remember to mix in the butter and cream while the potatoes are still hot to ensure they absorb the flavors evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste, and consider adding roasted garlic or cheese like Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken

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

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smoother process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a comforting meal:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes each side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Create the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until fully cooked through and tender.

Mash the Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and heavy cream, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy chicken over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, spooning extra sauce over the top.

Don't forget to check that everything is cooked through before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the mashed potatoes before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it is placed in an airtight container to preserve its flavors and texture. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the chicken and sauce, but be aware that the cream may separate upon thawing. To reheat, gently warm in a low saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce seems thickened, a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creamy consistency.

Mashed potatoes can be tricky to reheat. When stored in the fridge, they can thicken, making them hard to reheat without additional moisture. To fix this, add a little heavy cream or milk when reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Stir well to incorporate the liquids, and heat in short intervals, checking often to prevent overheating. Stovetop reheating allows for better control, but don't let them get too hot to maintain their creamy texture.

Variations to Try

For a twist on this classic dish, consider adding vegetables to the chicken and sauce. Peas, carrots, or mushrooms can add color and nutrition, while enhancing the overall flavor profile. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the liquids. If you want a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish to a new level without overpowering the comforting essence.

If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the sauce thickens properly. For a gluten-free version, check that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Regardless of the changes you make, aim to retain the balance of creaminess and savory flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative as they remain juicy and flavorful during cooking.

→ Is there a low-fat alternative for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, but it may affect the creaminess.

→ Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat it just before serving.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Vegetables like peas or green beans make great additions either mixed in or served on the side.