Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Plates

I absolutely adore this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe. It brings back memories of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table to share stories and laughter. The creamy chicken pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes, creating a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. Whether I’m having a long day or celebrating a small win, this recipe never fails to lift my spirits. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, I’m often left with a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless to prepare.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:58:36.521Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a rich and comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a creamy sauce served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes is truly a warm hug on a plate. I learned that allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving enhances its juiciness, making every bite even more satisfying.

One tip I always share is to use a mix of butter and cream when making mashed potatoes; it adds an incredible depth of flavor and creaminess that elevates the dish. I also love to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and taste right before serving. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A warm and creamy dish that feels like a hug in a bowl
Perfectly seasoned chicken that’s juicy and tender
Mashed potatoes that are luxuriously fluffy and buttery

Getting the Chicken Just Right

Achieving the perfect sear on your chicken is crucial for flavor. Start with a pre-heated skillet; medium heat is ideal to prevent burning while ensuring the chicken cooks through. Look for a golden-brown crust, which usually takes 5-7 minutes per side. If you're using thicker breasts, you might want to adjust the cooking time and cover the skillet with a lid for even cooking.

Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes off the heat. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making each bite more succulent. If you find the chicken is getting dry, simply remove it from the skillet earlier after reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring juiciness without overcooking.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

When making the creamy sauce, be sure to do the sautéing over medium heat. This helps to build flavor without burning the aromatics. Sauté the onions until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential; when they turn soft, they release their natural sweetness, enhancing the sauce's overall depth.

After adding the chicken broth, let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors before incorporating the heavy cream. The visual cue to look for is a gentle simmer; if it’s boiling rapidly, reduce the heat to prevent separation. You'll want to stir continuously as it thickens, allowing the sauce to coat the back of a spoon, for a creamy consistency.

Mashed Potato Mastery

For the mashed potatoes, using russet potatoes is key as their high starch content results in fluffy, light mash. Be sure to cut them into uniform cubes—about 1-2 inches—to ensure even cooking. When boiling, start in cold, salted water and bring it to a rolling boil with a lid on for the best texture. After about 15-20 minutes, test for tenderness by piercing with a fork; they should fall apart easily.

When mashing, avoid overworking the potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy texture. Use a potato masher or ricer for a light and fluffy finish. If you find your mash is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream to loosen it. Finally, a sprinkle of salt at the end enhances the flavor beautifully and balances the richness of the butter.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh chives for garnish

Directions

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.

Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat well with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cook the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot. Mash the potatoes and mix in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto a plate, top with the creamy chicken, and garnish with fresh chives.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a sophisticated twist. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken dish can easily be prepared ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess and moisture.

For the mashed potatoes, consider making them a day in advance as well. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a bit more butter or cream, and stir well to bring back that smooth texture. You can also use a microwave, adding a splash of milk for creamy mashed potatoes in minutes.

Flavor Variations

To upgrade the flavors in your creamy chicken, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end can also introduce a vibrant note. If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of white wine after the broth can add complexity to the sauce.

For a different twist on the mashed potatoes, try adding roasted garlic or cream cheese for a tangy flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, infuse your butter with garlic or herbs while cooking, then mix it into the potatoes for a rich taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully and may add even more flavor due to their higher fat content.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them gently before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.