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 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! It’s the ultimate dish that brings warmth and happiness to any dinner table. The creamy sauce envelops tender pieces of chicken, while the fluffy mashed potatoes provide the perfect backdrop for this rich meal. Every spoonful feels like a hug on a chilly evening, and it’s so easy to prepare. I often find myself craving this delightful combination, especially after a long day. It's truly comfort food at its best!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:34.990Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The combination of the creamy chicken sauce with the buttery mashed potatoes creates an irresistible blend that satisfied my cravings completely. I discovered that using a mix of herbs and a splash of lemon juice elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Another tip I learned is to let the mashed potatoes rest for a few minutes after mashing, allowing all the flavors to meld together. This little trick makes all the difference in achieving that perfect comfort food consistency!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken
Comforting mashed potatoes that are buttery and fluffy
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner

Perfecting the Chicken and Sauce

For this dish, using chicken breasts ensures a juicy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Dicing the chicken into uniform pieces allows for even cooking; aim for about 1-inch cubes. As you sauté, look for a golden-brown exterior that signals readiness, typically around 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush adding the heavy cream; letting the chicken caramelize slightly deepens the flavor and adds complexity to the sauce.

The combination of thyme and rosemary infuses the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the comfort food experience. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs, if available; they will provide a brighter flavor profile. If you prefer a thinner sauce, adjust the ratio of chicken broth to cream, but remember to allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly for a rich consistency that clings to the chicken.

Mastering Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

The key to buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes lies in the potato variety. Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds yield the best texture. When cooking, avoid overboiling; 15 minutes in salted water is ideal, just until you can easily pierce them with a fork. Drain them well to remove excess moisture, giving you that coveted creamy texture once you mash.

For the ultimate creaminess, I like to use a potato masher for a rustic feel, but a ricer will give you an ultra-smooth result. Mix in the butter first, allowing it to melt completely before adding the milk. This technique creates a velvety texture. Adjust seasoning carefully; taste before serving to ensure your mashed potatoes complement the flavorful chicken sauce beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of boiling salted water. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serve

Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try including seasonal vegetables in the chicken mixture or using a splash of white wine before adding the cream. This not only enhances the dish but also adds a delightful depth to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to each bite. You can also serve this dish alongside sautéed green beans or a side salad for a balanced meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding grated cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply increase the ingredients proportionally, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary. Ensure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the chicken without overcrowding, as that could lead to steaming rather than browning.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, both components can be prepared separately. The creamy chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Mashed potatoes tend to dry out when reheated, so be sure to mix in a little extra milk or butter to restore their creamy texture. You can freeze either component for longer storage; just be aware that the potatoes may lose some texture when thawed. Always allow both to cool completely before packaging them for the freezer.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist on the classic flavors, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the chicken sauce for added color and nutrients. You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, but keep in mind that it will result in a slightly less rich sauce. If you need a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream and substitute the butter in mashed potatoes with a plant-based option.

To add some zing to your mashed potatoes, a dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of grated cheese can elevate the flavor profile. If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can be a quick substitute in a pinch, but freshly made will always give the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it's fully thawed and cooked thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

→ What other seasonings can I add?

Feel free to experiment with Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use coconut milk or almond milk and substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative in the mashed potatoes.