Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
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; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes; 1 pound Russet potatoes; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Delights

When I think of comfort food, creamy chicken and mashed potatoes always come to mind. This recipe has become my go-to dish for cozy nights in or for impressing guests at dinner parties. I love how the creamy chicken melds beautifully with the buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes, making every bite a warm hug for the soul. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is all about that rich flavor and creamy texture that brings everyone around the table together for a memorable meal.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:34:34.614Z

Cooking has always been a way for me to unwind, and making creamy chicken with mashed potatoes is a ritual I cherish. I've found that searing the chicken first keeps it juicy and flavorful, while the cream sauce adds a velvety touch that elevates the dish. Personally, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end for a bright pop of flavor that ties everything together.

As I experimented with different methods, I discovered that the perfect mashed potatoes require a mix of Yukon gold and Russet potatoes for creaminess with just the right amount of texture. Remember to keep them warm while you whip up the chicken, so everything’s ready to enjoy in perfect harmony!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that is irresistibly comforting
Perfectly seasoned chicken that pairs well with buttery mashed potatoes
A classic dish that's easy to prepare for any occasion

Ingredient Highlights

The combination of Yukon gold and Russet potatoes creates a beautiful flavor and texture for the mashed potatoes. Yukon golds bring a buttery taste and creamy consistency, while the Russets add fluffiness. This pairing ensures that your mashed potatoes will have a rich mouthfeel, making them the perfect complement to the creamy chicken. If you're short on time, you can opt for just one type of potato, but the mix truly enhances the overall experience.

Using heavy cream in the chicken sauce brings a luxurious richness that enhances the dish dramatically. The cream not only thickens the sauce but also balances the flavors from the chicken broth and seasonings. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, though the latter may require a bit more adjusting with seasoning to maintain the rich flavor.

Perfecting Your Technique

Searing the chicken properly is key to developing flavor and prevents it from drying out. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; it should sizzle upon contact. Aim for a golden-brown crust, which will take about 6 minutes per side. If the chicken sticks to the pan, give it a little more time before attempting to flip—it should release naturally when it's ready.

While mashing the potatoes, avoid overworking them. This can lead to a gluey texture, which is far from the fluffy result you want. Use a potato masher or a ricer for the best results, and mash just until smooth. Adding the butter and milk after you've mashed the potatoes allows for better absorption, ensuring a rich and creamy finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Creamy Chicken

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
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
1 pound Russet potatoes
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and chop the Yukon gold and Russet potatoes into equal-sized pieces. Place them into a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 20 minutes.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear each side until golden brown, about 6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it reduce slightly, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, about 10 more minutes.

Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken. Drizzle with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade comfort food!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes. It makes them even creamier and richer. Also, don’t forget to save some of the chicken broth for adjusting the cream sauce texture if needed.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best parts of this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance, just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back their creamy consistency.

For the chicken, you can also cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat the sauce gently to avoid separating the cream before adding the chicken back in to warm. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Variations and Pairings

Feel free to get creative with the creamy chicken sauce by adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, which can add both nutrients and flavor to the dish. Sauté the mushrooms separately before adding them to the sauce to maximize their depth of flavor. Simply stir in the vegetables right before serving for a pop of color and an extra nutritional boost.

For a fun twist, try incorporating different herbs and spices into the creamy chicken. Fresh thyme or rosemary would bring an aromatic lift, while a touch of paprika can add warmth and depth. As for pairings, consider serving this dish with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans to balance out the richness and add freshness to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the texture may be lighter.

→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes and chicken sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying.