Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 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 cups mashed potatoes (prepared); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nostalgic Bites

When I think of comfort food, creamy chicken and mashed potatoes always comes to mind. This dish brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with my family around the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken in a velvety sauce served over fluffy mashed potatoes is deeply satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it the perfect choice for both a weeknight dinner and special occasions. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that truly warms the soul.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:41:34.332Z

One of my fondest childhood memories is of my mother making creamy chicken and mashed potatoes on chilly nights. It was a labor of love that always left us feeling satisfied and full. Recently, I decided to recreate that comfort in my own kitchen, and I couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. The secret is using fresh herbs and good-quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor.

I also discovered that using leftover roasted chicken not only saves time but makes the dish even richer. Pair the chicken with buttery mashed potatoes, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy meal that everyone will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that elevates comfort food to the next level
Tender chicken that soaks up all the delicious flavors
Fluffy mashed potatoes that complement the dish perfectly

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, enhancing both flavor and texture. When simmering the chicken broth, aim for a gentle bubble—this helps to concentrate the flavor without risking burning the liquid. Stir in the heavy cream gradually, allowing it to meld with the broth rather than splashing it in all at once. A thickened sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon and look glossy, which usually takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. If your sauce isn’t thickening, consider adding a cornstarch slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and cold water.

Using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the skillet is essential. These bits, known as fond, carry rich flavor and add depth to your creamy sauce. Avoid high heat once the cream is involved; too much heat can cause the cream to curdle, resulting in an unappealing texture. If you notice the sauce beginning to separate, lower the heat immediately and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

For this recipe, the mashed potatoes should be creamy and smooth to perfectly complement the rich chicken and sauce. I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, which yield a fluffy consistency. When boiling the potatoes, ensure they’re cut into uniform chunks; this helps achieve even cooking. They should be cooked until fork-tender, generally around 15-20 minutes in salted water. Drain thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture before mashing, which can lead to a gluey texture.

To enhance the taste of your mashed potatoes, consider enriching them with butter, cream, or sour cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, unsweetened almond milk or yogurt can work as a great alternative. Mixing in roasted garlic or herbs such as rosemary or chives can also elevate the flavor profile, giving a unique twist while still complementing the creamy chicken.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking.

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 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure everything is well-prepared before moving on to the steps!

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. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet to coat with the creamy sauce. Serve the chicken over a bed of mashed potatoes, drizzling extra sauce on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to prepare this dish ahead of time, the creamy chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

For the mashed potatoes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in a microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of milk or butter to restore their creamy texture. To keep the potatoes from becoming dry, cover them with a lid or plastic wrap while reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh steamed vegetables like green beans or a crisp side salad, adding a vibrant touch to the meal. If you're in the mood for some crunch, consider topping the dish with crispy fried onions or roasted vegetables for added texture. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese over the chicken just before serving for a savory finish.

For a variation, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce for added flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative for a fun twist. The key is to ensure whatever you use can benefit from the same creamy sauce, maintaining the heartiness of this comfort food classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

→ How do I make the mashed potatoes from scratch?

Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, cream, salt, and pepper.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad make great sides to balance the meal.