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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Table

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! It's the perfect dish for those cozy nights when you want something warm, filling, and indulgent. The creamy chicken is cooked to perfection, and when paired with buttery mashed potatoes, it's pure bliss. This dish has become a family favorite, often requested for gatherings, and I can't wait to share it with you. It’s quick to prepare and will surely warm your heart on a chilly evening.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:57:36.739Z

When I first made this dish, I was on a quest for comfort during a particularly dreary winter evening. I was thrilled to find that the combination of creamy chicken and rich mashed potatoes could turn my mood around. I used a blend of fresh herbs and spices that really brought the dish to life. This is not just food; it’s a hug on a plate!

The technique of simmering the chicken in a flavorful broth while making the potatoes creamy with a touch of sour cream makes this dish stand out. I always ensure to season everything well, which elevates the taste. Now, it’s a staple in my home for any gathering or simply when comfort is needed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy flavors that satisfy your cravings
Perfect balance of protein and comfort carbs
A wholesome dish that brings everyone together

Mastering the Creamy Chicken Sauce

Creating the creamy sauce for the chicken is a key step in bringing this dish to life. After sautéing the onions and garlic, it's important to deglaze the pan with chicken broth, which adds depth of flavor. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding the heavy cream; this will ensure your sauce thickens properly and maintains a glorious sheen. Stir and simmer the mixture gently until it coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce. These additions enhance the chicken's richness and create a delightful complexity. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before combining the shredded chicken. This way, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced sauce that complements the creamy mashed potatoes.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the ideal texture for your mashed potatoes is all about technique. Instead of using a traditional potato masher, try using a ricer or food mill for an ultra-smooth finish. This prevents lumps and creates a creamy consistency. When incorporating butter and sour cream, make sure they are at room temperature, which helps them melt seamlessly into the hot potatoes, making it easier to achieve that luxurious, velvety mouthfeel.

Don't shy away from seasoning! Start with a base of salt, but also sprinkle in a little garlic powder or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt. This substitution adds a tangy punch and keeps the dish creamy without the extra calories.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving this dish, it’s delightful to create a visually appealing presentation by layering the mashed potatoes with the creamy chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. For a bit of crunch, you can also sprinkle crispy fried onions on top, adding an exciting texture contrast that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess.

If you plan to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can store the chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat until heated through while stirring in a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave, but add a bit of milk or cream during the reheating process to maintain their smoothness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add chicken thighs, browning them on both sides. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, seasoned with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

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

Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is ready, shred it into the sauce. Serve the creamy chicken over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dish can be served with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in herbs the night before you plan to cook it. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter version in the chicken sauce.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add your favorite vegetables to the creamy chicken right before the simmering step. Peas, carrots, or even spinach can add a splash of color and extra nutrients, making this a more complete meal. Just ensure they are cooked until tender without losing their vibrant color, usually around 5–7 minutes of simmering.

For those looking for a healthier twist, consider swapping out the heavy cream for coconut milk. This substitution not only makes the dish dairy-free but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken. If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce for a warm kick.

Ingredient Insights

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is essential for creating flavorful and tender pieces of chicken. They have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, ensuring juiciness and a deeper taste. If you prefer a leaner option, you can swap in chicken breasts; just be mindful to avoid overcooking them, as they can dry out quickly.

The choice of potatoes also impacts your dish significantly. Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their starchy nature, yielding a fluffy texture. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can add a buttery richness that enhances the overall flavor. Considering this, your choice of potato can subtly transform the final dish's character, allowing for personal preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs tend to remain more tender and juicy.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute for a lighter option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the chicken and potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed green beans or a fresh salad complement the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes beautifully.