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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 2 cloves roasted garlic

Highlighted under: Homegrown Comfort

I fell in love with this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe after the first bite. It combines tender, juicy chicken in a velvety sauce with buttery, smooth mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. As the colder months approach, this dish has become a staple in our home. I love how each bite brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and cozy evenings. The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:43:35.133Z

When I first made this dish, I wanted something that felt like a warm hug on a plate. After a few trials, I finally perfected the creamy sauce. I found that using a mix of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a rich flavor that keeps the chicken moist and tender. Pairing it with soft, buttery mashed potatoes elevates the whole experience—you can’t help but go back for seconds!

My secret tip? Use roasted garlic in the mash for an unexpected depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. It’s those small touches that make this dish something special. I've shared this recipe with friends, and they always ask for more, making it a new favorite at gatherings!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Creamy sauce that hugs every bite of chicken.
Buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth.
Quick prep time for busy weeknights but elegant enough for special celebrations.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is what elevates it to comfort food status. When creating the sauce, the key is to gently simmer the chicken broth and heavy cream. This process allows the cream to thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, and you'll notice the sauce transforms into a silky blanket that clings to the chicken beautifully. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can incorporate a slurry of cornstarch and water, adding it slowly until the desired consistency is reached.

Don't be afraid to play with flavors in your sauce. As the broth and cream simmer, it’s a great time to taste and adjust. A hint of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can complement the flavors, or a splash of white wine can add a sophisticated note. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with small amounts and taste as you go.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes shouldn’t just be an afterthought; they’re the perfect side here. For the best texture, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Drain them well to avoid watery mash, then return them to the pot to steam dry for a minute or two before mashing. This simple step helps achieve a fluffier consistency when you add the milk and butter.

To amp up the flavor, I often add roasted garlic to the potatoes. It lends a subtle sweetness and depth that pairs flawlessly with the comfort of creamy chicken. If you don't have roasted garlic on hand, try adding a little more garlic powder or even a dash of cream cheese for richness. Experimenting with these small details can transform your mashed potatoes into something truly special.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your comforting meal:

For the Chicken and Sauce

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 cloves roasted garlic

Ensure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and set aside.

Create the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and heavy cream. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, and roasted garlic (if using). Mash until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the chicken with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the side. Drizzle with any remaining creamy sauce from the skillet. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Now sit down and relish in this delightful meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add steamed vegetables alongside the chicken and potatoes for a complete dinner plate. For extra flavor, garnish the dish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately from the mashed potatoes to keep the latter from becoming gummy. In an airtight container, the chicken can last up to three days in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the chicken with its sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. The key is to warm it thoroughly without overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.

Mashed potatoes can also be refrigerated but might need some TLC upon reheating. Add a splash of milk when reheating in the microwave or in a pot on the stove to restore their creamy texture. If you're planning to make this dish ahead, consider doubling the recipe and freezing the leftover chicken and sauce for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To make the most of this comforting dish, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken and potatoes. You might also serve steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for an added nutritional boost and a pop of color on the plate.

For a heartier meal, you could integrate this chicken into a baked casserole with toppings like cheese or breadcrumbs. Simply layer the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes in a baking dish and top with your favorite toppings before baking until golden and bubbly. This variation transforms the dish into a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s ideal for potlucks or family dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with a mixture of milk and a little flour to thicken it or use half-and-half for a lighter version.

→ How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free and use a gluten-free flour for thickening if necessary.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and reheat with a little milk to bring them back to a creamy consistency.