Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken thighs; 2 pieces chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Family Favorites

I absolutely love creating heartwarming dishes, and nothing beats the classic combination of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes. This recipe brings back fond memories of family dinners, where the aroma of savory chicken blended with rich gravy filled the room. It's the perfect comfort food that warms my soul on chilly evenings. Plus, it's easy to make and comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:06:38.530Z

One of the best parts of preparing this dish is how the creamy sauce comes together so effortlessly. I usually use a combination of chicken thighs and breasts for added flavor and tenderness. Cooking them with garlic and herbs creates a depth that makes each mouthful delightful. Ensuring that I let the chicken simmer in the gravy allows it to soak up all the wonderful flavors, making it a dish that’s hard to resist.

When it comes to the mashed potatoes, I always go for Yukon Golds since they’re naturally buttery. Ricing them instead of mashing ensures a smooth and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken. A hint of sour cream and fresh herbs takes the flavor to another level, making this dish feel indulgent without much effort!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelopes tender chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are incredibly smooth and buttery
Perfect balance of flavors with garlic and herbs enhancing the dish
An easy recipe that brings everyone together at the dinner table

The Heart of the Dish: Chicken and Sauce

The chicken is the star of this recipe, and choosing the right cut is crucial for achieving the best flavor and tenderness. Chicken thighs are ideal due to their higher fat content, which keeps them juicy during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but ensure they are cooked just until no longer pink to avoid drying them out. The rich sauce, made from sautéed aromatics and a blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, envelops the chicken in a luscious, silky texture that’s hard to resist.

When simmering the chicken in the sauce, keep an eye on the heat level. A gentle simmer is key to infusing the chicken with flavor without overcooking it. Aim for a light bubbling, adjusting the heat down if necessary. This slow cooking allows the dried thyme to fully release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor profile. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce during the final minutes of cooking.

Making the Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Selecting the right potatoes is just as important as the chicken. Yukon Gold potatoes are a favorite for their buttery flavor and creamy texture after mashing. To achieve the smoothest mashed potatoes, ensure they are boiled until fork-tender, about 15 minutes, but avoid overcooking them, which can lead to a gummy texture. Drain them well to remove excess moisture before mashing, and for an added level of creaminess, warm the butter slightly before mixing it in.

If you're looking for ways to personalize your mashed potatoes, consider adding roasted garlic for an earthy sweetness or incorporating cream cheese for a tangy flavor. Fresh herbs like chives can elevate the dish further, offering a bright contrast to the richness of the butter and sour cream. For a vegan alternative, substitute the butter with olive oil and the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt—just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Serving and Storing Tips

When plating your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes, take the time to arrange them beautifully for a more inviting presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the dish wonderfully. Pairing this meal with steamed vegetables, like green beans or broccoli, can add a nice crunch and vibrant contrast in flavors and textures.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken separately from the mashed potatoes to preserve their individual textures. Both can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revitalize the sauce. For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen for up to two months. To reheat frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet, making sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Feel free to use fresh herbs for added flavor.
Pair with your favorite seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.

For the Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust seasoning to your preference for the best flavor!

Instructions

Start by preparing your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs and breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then return the chicken to the skillet, letting it simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the diced Yukon Gold potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, and return to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper; mash until smooth.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken alongside a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your comforting meal with a side salad for extra freshness!

Pro Tips

For a richer sauce, feel free to add a splash of white wine while cooking the chicken. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Ingredient Spotlight: Chicken

The chicken, serving as the main protein in this dish, plays a pivotal role in delivering flavor and texture. Chicken thighs are particularly beneficial because of their fat content, which prevents dryness and provides a rich taste that works harmoniously with the creamy sauce. If using chicken breasts, consider marinating them in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added moisture and flavor before cooking.

Don't forget about the herbs and seasonings; they are essential for elevating your dish. While thyme adds an earthy note, feel free to explore other fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage, which can also enhance the dish's overall profile. Opting for fresh thyme will intensify the flavors further compared to dried; simply use three times as much fresh thyme as dried.

Mashed Potato Variations

Mashed potatoes offer a wonderful canvas for creativity. For a robust flavor, you can swap out half of the Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes, which lends a natural sweetness and lovely orange hue. If you enjoy a bit of texture, try mixing in a handful of crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions for added depth and crunch.

For a creamier hybrid, consider using a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half or milk, allowing for a tailored richness that fits your palate. Adjust the seasonings as you go, and remember that each addition, whether it's garlic powder or a hint of nutmeg, can transform a simple mashed potato dish into something extraordinary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts only?

Yes, you can substitute the thighs with all chicken breasts; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or crusty bread.