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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Corner

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! It brings back memories of family dinners where warmth and flavors combined to create something truly special. The creamy chicken is rich and savory, perfectly balanced with buttery mashed potatoes. I often serve this dish after a long day when I crave something comforting yet satisfying. It not only fills me up but also hugs my soul, making it a staple in my kitchen for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.519Z

I remember the first time I attempted this dish; I was blown away by how simple ingredients could come together to create something so delightful. The key is to cook the chicken slowly in a creamy sauce that infuses every bite with incredible flavors. I learned that using fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, elevates the dish, bringing in freshness that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

As I make this recipe, I often experiment with different vegetables mixed in. Adding peas or carrots not only enhances the flavor but also makes it visually appealing. I always serve it with my homemade mashed potatoes, which I whip with a touch of sour cream for added richness. This dish has become a true favorite in our home, and every bite feels like a big, warm hug!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that envelops tender chicken
Buttery mashed potatoes that are the perfect sidekick
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Comforting flavors that warm the heart

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial when preparing the creamy chicken for this dish. Using salt and pepper to season the chicken before searing not only enhances its natural flavors but also creates a beautiful golden crust. This step adds depth to the dish and prevents the chicken from tasting bland. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity.

For the creamy sauce, remember that the quality of the chicken broth matters significantly. A homemade broth with rich flavors can elevate the overall dish, whereas a lower-quality broth may detract from the experience. If pressed for time, you can opt for a low-sodium store-bought broth, adjusting the salt in the recipe as necessary to achieve the right balance.

Mashed Potatoes Perfection

The mashed potatoes serve as the perfect base for the creamy chicken. For the best results, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, which yield a fluffy texture. Ensure that the potatoes are evenly diced and boiled until fork-tender; this typically takes around 15 minutes. Undercooking them can lead to lumpy mashed potatoes, while overcooking can make them watery, so keep a close eye on them.

Adding sour cream not only brings a delightful tang but also contributes to a creamy mouthfeel. If you prefer a dairy-free version, consider substituting with plant-based sour cream or using almond milk in place of the sour cream to maintain a similar consistency while enhancing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a comforting meal:

For the Creamy Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Once you have everything ready, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect meal:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, then return the chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer on medium-low for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and sour cream, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy chicken over a generous portion of mashed potatoes. Enjoy the dish while it's hot to savor all the comforting flavors!

Don't forget to garnish your chicken with fresh herbs for an added touch!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce just before serving. It adds a nice brightness that can elevate the dish even more.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're making this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes ahead of time, you can store the components separately in airtight containers. The creamy chicken should last in the fridge for up to three days, while the mashed potatoes will hold well for the same duration. When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat to preserve its juiciness, and add a splash of chicken broth to loosen up both the sauce and the mashed potatoes.

For freezing, it's best to freeze the creamy chicken separately from the mashed potatoes. After cooling, transfer the chicken and sauce to freezer-safe containers, where they can be stored for up to three months. Mashed potatoes, however, may not freeze well due to their texture. Instead, consider making them fresh when you're ready to serve the thawed chicken.

Flavor Variations

Don't hesitate to get creative with the creamy sauce! For a richer flavor, you can incorporate a splash of white wine after deglazing the pan, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes before adding the cream. Additionally, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. These ingredients not only complement but also enhance the existing profile of the dish.

If you're in the mood for a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. This will give the dish a delightful kick while still retaining its overall comforting essence. Experimenting with different herbs, like fresh basil or parsley, can also add a refreshing touch to your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and simply heat it up when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

→ Is it possible to make it healthier?

You can use reduced-fat cream and substitute mashed potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter version.