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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup sour cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Bliss

I absolutely love whipping up a warm and comforting plate of creamy chicken and mashed potatoes when I want to indulge in some serious comfort food. There’s something so satisfying about the creamy texture of the chicken paired with buttery mashed potatoes. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of seasoned chicken and the smoothness of potatoes, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:57:34.540Z

When I first made this creamy chicken dish, I was aiming for warmth and simplicity to accompany a chilly evening. Using a cast-iron skillet made a significant difference, allowing the chicken to sear beautifully while achieving that coveted creamy sauce. I added some garlic and fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost that really elevated the dish.

Throughout the process, I discovered that using Yukon Gold potatoes results in the fluffiest mashed potatoes! The creaminess perfectly complements the texture of the chicken, and a hint of sour cream added just before serving takes them over the top. Trust me, this meal will become a staple in your home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth
Creamy texture that pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes
A comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

When searing the chicken breasts, ensure that your skillet is well-heated before adding the olive oil. You should hear a sizzle when the chicken hits the pan; this indicates the right temperature for that golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming instead of searing—cook in batches if necessary. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat; an instant-read thermometer is a helpful tool here.

Another essential aspect is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more succulent bite. Don't rush this step; about 5 minutes of resting time works wonders, preventing the chicken from becoming dry when cut into.

Mastering Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Choosing Yukon Gold potatoes for your mashed potatoes not only provides a buttery flavor but also a creamy texture. Make sure to cut the potatoes into even-sized cubes, around 1.5 inches, so they cook uniformly. This will help them become fork-tender within the recommended 15-20 minutes boiling time. If you prefer a chunkier mash, reduce the mashing time slightly—just enough to combine the ingredients without reaching a pureed consistency.

For an added richness, experiment with the proportions of butter and sour cream according to your taste. The sour cream not only enhances creaminess but introduces a subtle tang that balances the richness of the butter. To keep the potatoes warm while you finish the chicken, cover them with a lid but be careful; keeping them too long can lead to a gummy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this hearty meal:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup sour cream
Salt to taste

These ingredients will create a satisfying and flavorful experience for your taste buds!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your comforting dish:

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sear each piece for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Cook the Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Mash the Potatoes

Add butter, milk, and sour cream to the potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken over a generous serving of mashed potatoes, spooning extra sauce on top. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Following these steps will give you a delicious and comforting dish that's sure to please!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding sautéed mushrooms or peas to your creamy chicken for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing your creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, which adds not just a pop of color but also a hint of freshness. You can also offer a side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a vibrant contrast on your plate, keeping the meal balanced and visually appealing.

When serving, don’t forget to offer additional sauce at the table. This allows guests to customize their plate according to their preference for creaminess. You could even get creative and add a sprinkle of paprika or freshly cracked black pepper for a bit of spice.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, both the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes can be prepared in advance. The chicken is best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, you might want to do it on a low heat in a skillet, which will help revive the sauce’s creaminess without separating it.

Mashed potatoes can be tricky to reheat without becoming gummy. One method I find effective is to add a splash of milk while reheating them over low heat on the stovetop. Stir gently to reintegrate the creaminess and bring them back to life. Both of these components also freeze well but should be consumed within three months for the best flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

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

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half or a low-fat cream alternative, but the sauce will be less rich.

→ Can I prepare the mashed potatoes in advance?

Yes! Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad would complement this dish nicely.