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: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

I love indulging in comfort food, and this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe always hits the spot. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce served over buttery mashed potatoes is pure bliss. It's a dish that not only warms my heart but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings. Whether it’s a rainy day or just a craving for something scrumptious, this recipe never fails to satisfy. Trust me, once you take the first bite, you'll understand why it's a family favorite.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:49:33.978Z

Creating this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish is like a warm hug on a plate. I remember experimenting with different flavors and finally settled on garlic and thyme, which elevate the dish. The key is to let the chicken gently simmer in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all the flavors while keeping it moist and tender.

I also discovered that using Yukon Gold potatoes for the mash adds a buttery richness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Don't rush the mashing; it allows for the best texture. This dish has become our go-to comfort meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken
Fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully
Perfect for cozy family dinners or simple weeknight meals

The Importance of Simmering

Simmering the chicken in the chicken broth is crucial for deepening the flavor profile of your dish. This step allows the chicken to absorb the savory broth and infuse it with the aromatic notes of garlic and thyme. Aim for a gentle simmer; you want small bubbles to break the surface without vigorous boiling. This method ensures the chicken stays tender while also allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a creamier and more cohesive sauce.

When you add the heavy cream, be sure to keep the heat low. If the heat is too high, the cream may separate, leading to a less desirable texture. Stirring frequently during this simmering phase helps to maintain an even consistency and prevents sticking. You'll know it's ready when the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon, creating a glossy finish that clings to the chicken perfectly.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the fluffiest mashed potatoes, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes as they have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. After boiling, let them sit in the pot for a minute or two; this allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a denser, silkier mash. Keep the peels on for added nutrients and a rustic flavor or peel them for a classic creamy texture; the choice is yours.

When mashing, be careful not to overwork the potatoes, as they can become gluey. A potato masher works great, but for a silkier texture, a ricer is my go-to tool. Add the butter first, so it melts into the warm potatoes, followed by the milk until you reach your desired creaminess. Taste and adjust the salt generously, as this simple addition greatly enhances the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken

1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

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

Once you have everything, you're ready to jump into making this comforting dish.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, onion, and garlic, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Stir in the chicken broth and thyme, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Spoon the creamy chicken over a generous portion of mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Your comforting meal is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding mushrooms to the creamy chicken or experiment with different herbs like rosemary.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes to suit your flavor preferences. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein if you're looking for alternatives. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can also replace thyme for a different herby twist. Experimenting with garlic roasted in the oven before mashing into your potatoes can elevate the dish further, providing a sweet and nutty flavor.

For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce or garnishing the finished dish with sautéed greens for an added layer of color and texture. Small additions like cheese—Parmesan or a sharp Cheddar—folded into the mashed potatoes can also transform them into something wonderfully rich and delicious.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, both the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes store exceptionally well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done on the stovetop; add a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes while reheating to restore their creaminess. For the chicken, warming gently over low heat in a skillet will preserve its tender texture while ensuring the sauce doesn't over-reduce.

For longer storage, both components freeze well. Cool them completely before transferring to freezer bags or containers, where they can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a touch of liquid to prevent drying out. This way, you can enjoy comfort food on busy nights with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just skip the cooking step and add the leftover chicken to the sauce to heat through.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy chicken separately from the mashed potatoes. Reheat when ready to serve.

→ What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots to the creamy chicken for added nutrition and color.