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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup white wine (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen

When I crave something warm and comforting, this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe always delivers. I love how the tender chicken simmers in a rich, savory sauce while the buttery mashed potatoes provide the perfect creamy base. It’s one of those meals that makes me feel at home, no matter where I am. Just the thought of it brings me back to cozy family dinners, where every bite is a hug. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a go-to recipe for your comfort food cravings.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:05:34.474Z

When I first made this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish, I was surprised at how easily it came together without compromising flavor. I seared the chicken until golden brown, which locked in the juices, making the final dish incredibly tender and flavorful. Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce brought a depth I hadn’t expected, elevating this simple meal to something truly special.

One essential tip I learned over time is to use Yukon Gold potatoes for mashing. Their natural buttery taste and creamy texture create the perfect base when blended with butter and cream. Don’t forget to season the potatoes well; it makes a world of difference in elevating the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that blankets tender chicken
Buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
Perfectly balanced flavors that scream comfort food

      

The Importance of Ingredients

Choosing the right chicken is key to achieving the tender texture that makes this dish satisfying. I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and ability to absorb the flavors of the sauce. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier piece of meat, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a few minutes longer.

The heavy cream in this recipe is what transforms the sauce into a luxurious, silky texture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half, but be aware that the sauce will be less creamy. Adding a splash of white wine enhances the depth of flavor, but it's entirely optional. If you skip it, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice for brightness.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken properly is crucial for building flavor. When you place the chicken in the skillet, resist the urge to move it around too much. Let it cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes on each side until it develops a golden crust. This browning creates a base for your sauce that elevates the dish immensely; keep an eye out for those lovely browned bits stuck to the pan as they add richness.

While making the sauce, don’t rush the simmering process. Allow it to bubble gently to thicken properly—this should take about 5-10 minutes. If the sauce doesn't thicken, a quick fix is to mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce, letting it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this comforting dish:

Chicken and Sauce

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried thyme

Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious creamy chicken and mashed potatoes:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits.

Add the chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer until slightly thickened.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the sauce simmers, boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and return them to the pot. Add butter and cream, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce, allowing it to warm through. Serve the chicken and creamy sauce over the mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal while it's warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of lemon juice to the sauce right before serving. It brightens up the dish immensely!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can easily be made ahead of time. You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream, and toss in a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.

When it comes to mashed potatoes, they can also be prepared ahead. Store the mashed potatoes in a separate airtight container. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove with a splash of cream or milk while stirring to restore their creamy texture. If you find them too thick upon reheating, add a bit more liquid to get them nice and smooth again.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli on the side. They will add color, nutrition, and additional texture that complements the creaminess of the chicken and mashed potatoes beautifully. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a nice contrast to this hearty dish.

If you want to elevate this comfort meal further, consider topping the creamy chicken with grated cheese for the last few minutes of cooking. A sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar will melt down into the sauce, adding an additional layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the potatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer darker meat.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a milk and flour combination for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat before serving.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complement the rich flavors nicely.