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: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nostalgic Comfort Bites

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes on cozy nights at home. This dish brings together tender chicken and creamy mashed potatoes for a meal that feels indulgent yet allows me to unwind. The rich gravy drizzled over everything creates a mouthwatering combination that warms my heart and satisfies my cravings. Plus, making this dish is straightforward, so I can easily whip it up even after a long day. It truly is my go-to recipe for comfort food bliss!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.769Z

When I first decided to create this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe, I wanted something that would remind me of family dinners growing up. The process is like a hug in a bowl; the smell of sautéing chicken fills the kitchen with warmth. I discovered that using cream cheese in my mashed potatoes adds a velvety texture and a subtle tang that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

I find that letting the chicken simmer in the homemade gravy for just a little longer intensifies the flavors. The key is to taste the gravy as it cooks—this way, I can adjust the seasoning to suit my palate. Each bite of creamy goodness paired with perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes has made it a staple in my meal rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, dreamy chicken in a comforting gravy
Silky smooth mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in

      

Mastering the Chicken

Cooking the chicken to perfection is crucial for the success of this dish. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear, which locks in the moisture and adds flavor. If you're concerned about overcooking, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken. Make sure to let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing, helping retain its juices.

When preparing the gravy, the combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a balanced sauce. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, so adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance the flavor.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the ideal mashed potato consistency is all about timing and technique. After boiling the potatoes, make sure to drain them completely; excess water can lead to watery mashed potatoes. For the fluffiest mash, I like to use a potato ricer instead of a traditional masher. This method eliminates lumps and gives a creamy texture without overworking the potatoes, which can lead to a gluey outcome.

The cream cheese and butter serve a dual purpose in this dish: they add richness and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based butter. Additionally, adding roasted garlic or herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the mashed potatoes’ taste and bring fresh notes to the meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

For the Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and chicken breasts, seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes total.

Make the Gravy

Once the chicken is browned, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked and the sauce thickened.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot, then mash with cream cheese, butter, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the mashed potatoes onto dishes and ladle the creamy chicken with gravy on top. Enjoy your comfort meal!

Serve with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy. Also, for a healthier twist, use low-fat cream cheese in the mashed potatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. You can cook the chicken and prepare the gravy, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the sauce's consistency.

The mashed potatoes can also be made ahead of time. To prevent them from becoming dry, store them in a sealed container, adding a bit of milk before reheating. You can do this either in the microwave or on the stovetop; just stir occasionally to achieve a creamy texture once again.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider serving the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with a side of sautéed greens or steamed vegetables. This adds a lovely color contrast and a nutritious element to the meal. Alternatively, you may want to include a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious gravy; it complements the dish beautifully.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might experiment by adding a few toppings to the dish. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms can provide new textures, while fresh herbs like thyme or parsley not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of freshness that balances the richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover chicken works beautifully in this recipe. Just skip the searing step and add it to the gravy to heat through.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet for best results.