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: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Staples

When I think of comfort food, creamy chicken and mashed potatoes instantly come to mind. This dish brings back memories of family dinners filled with warmth and laughter. I find the combination of tender chicken in a rich, velvety sauce paired with fluffy mashed potatoes truly irresistible. It's not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a nostalgic experience that feels like a warm hug. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I’ve made it countless times for family and friends. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:54:34.831Z

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes recipe has been refined over the years. I once experimented by adding a splash of white wine to the sauce, which added a depth of flavor I never expected. It’s a simple tweak that made a significant difference, highlighting the chicken’s savory richness. I always encourage people to try small modifications to make a recipe their own.

When making the mashed potatoes, I recommend using a combination of butter and cream, which ensures they’re luxuriously smooth. The trick is to not overwork the potatoes; you want them fluffy, not gummy. This attention to detail makes all the difference in achieving that perfect texture that compliments the chicken wonderfully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Richly creamy texture that comforts the soul
Hearty and filling, perfect for any occasion
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial for the success of your creamy chicken. I recommend a generous amount of salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors of the chicken while cooking and elevate the overall dish. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth, so don't skimp on them either. Remember, seasoning isn't just for taste; it helps in developing a beautiful crust on the chicken, giving it a delicious contrast to the creamy sauce later on.

If you prefer a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika during the seasoning step. This subtle heat balances the creaminess of the dish and adds an unexpected layer of flavor. Also, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be swapped in for parsley, offering a delightful aromatic touch that complements the richness of the sauce.

Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the right texture for mashed potatoes is key. Start by ensuring your potatoes are cut into evenly sized pieces before boiling; this helps them cook uniformly. Boil them until fork-tender, roughly 15 minutes. If the water is boiling too vigorously, it can make the potatoes mushy, so keep it at a gentle simmer. Once drained, let the potatoes sit for a minute to let excess moisture evaporate; this step helps you avoid watery mashed potatoes.

When mashing, I suggest using a potato ricer or a hand masher for best results. A mixer can add too much air, resulting in gummy potatoes. Your aim is a smooth, creamy consistency, enhanced by the butter and heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or almond milk can work as substitutions, while still delivering a satisfying creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips and Variations

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce a day ahead; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the sauce over low heat until warmed through, ensuring you don’t overcook it during reheating.

For variations, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or green beans into the sauce. You can also use different proteins such as turkey or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist, while still retaining the rich creamy sauce. Experimenting with different herbs or spices can also add your personal flair to the classic dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Add in the frozen peas and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and heavy cream, mashing until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce. They not only enhance the taste but also add a beautiful color to your dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serving creamy chicken and mashed potatoes is an opportunity to get creative. You can elevate the dish by presenting it alongside crusty bread; this adds a delightful texture contrast and is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables can also provide a refreshing balance to the hearty meal.

Don't forget to drizzle some of the remaining sauce over the fresh vegetables or bread for added flavor. You could also sprinkle additional fresh herbs on top before serving, which not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness right before eating.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, let the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes cool completely before placing them into airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, which can last up to 3 months in the freezer. This makes for excellent meal prep options that can be effortlessly reheated later on.

When reheating, do so gently using a stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to the mashed potatoes to help return their creamy texture. For the chicken, reheat it in the sauce over low heat to maintain moisture, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This preserves the dish's comforting qualities, making it just as enjoyable the second time around.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it's fully cooked through before serving.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter.

→ What can I substitute for peas?

You can use other vegetables such as green beans or corn.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and potatoes in advance and reheat them before serving.