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: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Flavors

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe because it's the ultimate hug in a bowl. Whenever I'm feeling down or just need a pick-me-up, I whip up this dish that combines buttery mashed potatoes with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully, and every bite is a delicious reminder of home-cooked comfort. It's perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, it will become your go-to comfort meal too!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:17:34.221Z

When I first created this recipe, I was searching for something that would both warm my heart and fill my belly. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that adding a splash of cream really enhances the overall richness of the dish, making it truly comforting. Each bite is balanced with the creamy sauce and the buttery potatoes.

What I aimed for was a dish that didn't take hours to prepare, yet still delivered that homemade taste we all love. So, I focused on using simple, fresh ingredients and a straightforward method. The result? An easy-to-make meal that brings joy and satisfaction!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich sauce that coats every bite
Buttery mashed potatoes that are the perfect side
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

To achieve that luxuriously creamy texture in your sauce, ensure that you cook the flour long enough with the butter to eliminate the raw taste, about 1 minute. It's essential to whisk constantly while adding the chicken broth and cream gradually. This method helps prevent lumps and results in a smooth sauce. If you notice any clumping, a quick whisk should help incorporate any stubborn bits back into the mixture.

The addition of onion powder and dried thyme not only enhances the flavor profile but also complements the richness of the cream. If you're pressed for time or want a different taste, feel free to substitute fresh herbs—such as chopped thyme or even rosemary—for added freshness. Just remember to adjust the amounts—fresh herbs are usually more potent than dried, so a little goes a long way.

Making the Perfect Mashed Potatoes

For the silkiest mashed potatoes, I recommend using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a traditional masher. This technique creates a light, fluffy texture, avoiding any gummy consistency that can happen with over-mashing. After draining, let the potatoes sit for a minute to allow the steam to escape before adding milk and butter; this keeps them from becoming too watery.

Adjusting the creaminess of your mashed potatoes is easy—just modify the milk and butter amounts to suit your taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the butter with olive oil or use low-fat milk. Moreover, adding roasted garlic to the potatoes while mashing will introduce a layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Creamy Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup frozen peas

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Preparation

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

Remove and let rest before slicing.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream.

Add onion powder, thyme, and peas. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. Return sliced chicken to skillet and stir to coat.

Cook the Mashed Potatoes

In a large pot, cover potatoes with water and boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with the creamy chicken mixture, and enjoy!

Final Touches

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a garnish just before serving. Additionally, using Yukon gold potatoes makes a richer and creamier mash due to their natural buttery flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this dish in advance, cook the chicken and sauce but hold off on assembling until you're ready to serve. This can help preserve the creamy texture of the sauce and prevent the potatoes from becoming too dense. Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the sauce's velvety consistency.

The mashed potatoes can also be made ahead of time. If they stiffen when refrigerated, add a splash of milk and reheat them over low heat until they regain their creamy texture. For long-term storage, consider freezing the creamy chicken mixture in a separate container. It can last for up to two months; just ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dinner experience, consider serving this dish with a side of sautéed green beans or a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness from the greens beautifully balances the richness of the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious meal.

For a fun twist, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach to the creamy sauce. This not only boosts the nutrient content but also gives your dish a vibrant visual appeal. If you're feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can be added right before serving, adding an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the rest of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or make a lighter version using milk, but it won’t be as rich.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce and mash the potatoes in advance. Just combine them and heat before serving.