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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Cooking

I love making Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes because it brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken pieces, making each bite utterly comforting. Paired with buttery mashed potatoes, this dish is a family favorite that always leaves everyone asking for seconds. There’s something special about the combination of flavors and textures that takes me back to my childhood dinners, creating not just a meal, but memories. It’s cozy, it’s delicious, and just perfect for a chilly evening.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:37:34.174Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I wanted something that felt like a warm hug on a plate. As I experimented with the creamy sauce and the seasoning, I discovered the perfect balance that enhanced the chicken without overpowering it. The key was to let the chicken simmer gently so it absorbed all those beautiful flavors.

One of my best tips for ensuring the mashed potatoes are extra creamy is to use a mix of butter and cream. It creates that dreamy texture that makes you want to go back for more. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a comforting ritual that brings everyone together to enjoy something truly delicious.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and comforting flavors that satisfy
Creamy sauce with tender chicken
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a tender texture that works beautifully with the creamy sauce. However, if you prefer dark meat for added flavor, chicken thighs can be a great alternative. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through. To check for doneness, pierce the chicken with a knife; the juices should run clear without any pink hue.

Marinating the chicken for even just 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices can enhance the depth of flavor. If you're short on time, consider simply seasoning the chicken well before cooking, which allows the natural flavors to shine through while still delivering exceptional results.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce can be adjusted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, so adding an extra half teaspoon of garlic powder or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can amp up the flavor.

To achieve a glossy, thickened sauce, make sure to simmer it gently and stir occasionally. If it thickens too much, you can always add a splash of additional chicken broth. Alternatively, for a thicker consistency right from the start, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in cold water before bringing the sauce to a simmer; this can help you achieve just the right texture without overcooking the chicken.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

When preparing the mashed potatoes, selecting the right type of potato plays a crucial role. Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but Russets can also work, especially if you're looking for a fluffier result. Whichever you choose, make sure to cut them into even quarters to ensure uniform cooking, and do not rush the boiling process—undercooked potatoes will result in lumpy mash.

For the best creamy consistency, mash the potatoes right after draining them to retain heat, which helps the butter and cream incorporate smoothly. If you prefer a rustic texture, use a potato masher or a fork. For ultra-smooth potatoes, a ricer is my favorite tool, giving you that velvety mouthfeel that pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken. If you’re prepping ahead of time, you can store the mashed potatoes in the fridge for up to three days; just reheat gently on the stove with a little additional cream.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

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

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms to the creamy sauce. This will elevate the dish even more!

Serving Suggestions

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish is delightful on its own, but it can be enhanced with a range of sides. For a touch of freshness, consider pairing it with steamed green beans or sautéed spinach, which will add both color and nutrients to your meal. A crisp garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can also offer a pleasant contrast to the rich chicken and potatoes.

If you want to elevate this dish without much effort, consider serving it with a homemade gravy. Just deglaze the skillet after removing the chicken with a bit of white wine or additional chicken broth, scrape up the browned bits, and then thicken with a bit of flour or cornstarch for added flavor. This can bring another layer of richness that complements the creamy elements.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this recipe store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the creamy sauce to restore its original consistency and heat on low until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but do so in intervals to ensure even heating without overcooking the chicken.

If you want to freeze portions, be sure to let the chicken and mashed potatoes cool completely. Keep them in freezer-safe containers, separated if possible, for up to three months. Keep in mind that the texture of the mashed potatoes may change slightly after freezing, but this dish will still provide that comforting flavor when reheated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ What can I use if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter, but the sauce may not be as rich.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.