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: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; ¼ cup butter; ½ cup milk

Highlighted under: Warm Table Favorites

I absolutely love nothing more than curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate hug-in-a-bowl that warms the heart during chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a rich cream sauce served atop a fluffy bed of buttery mashed potatoes makes for a truly satisfying meal. I find that the simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:33:34.491Z

When I first made this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish, I was surprised at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. I used boneless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender, even with the rich sauce. The key is to let the sauce simmer a bit longer for that thick, velvety texture that coats the chicken beautifully.

A tip I discovered is to add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce; it elevates the dish by adding a subtle depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that is deeply satisfying and full of flavor
Fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up all the delicious sauce
An easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

Choosing the right cut of chicken can elevate the dish. Boneless chicken thighs are ideal as they remain juicy and tender during cooking, unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out. If you prefer white meat, you can use boneless chicken breasts but be cautious to not overcook them. Also, using fresh herbs like parsley not only brightens the dish but adds layers of flavor that dried herbs may not provide.

The creamy sauce relies heavily on the heavy cream to create that rich texture. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can try half-and-half, but this will change the consistency. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream, although it will impart a distinct flavor. When preparing the broth, homemade stock can make a significant difference in depth of flavor compared to store-bought.

Fluffy mashed potatoes are a matter of both technique and ingredients. Make sure to not overboil the potatoes to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to a gummy texture. Also, use a potato masher rather than a blender to keep the potatoes light and airy. Experimenting with the ratio of milk to butter allows you to customize the richness; I prefer a touch more butter for added flavor.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When cooking the chicken, ensure the skillet is preheated properly before adding the oil; a hot pan helps to sear the chicken nicely, giving it that brown color and flavor. If the chicken begins to stick, it might be too early to flip. I like to let it sit for a few extra minutes to achieve a beautiful golden color on all sides. Always check for doneness by slicing into the thickest part; it should be no longer pink and juices should run clear.

Simmering the sauce requires patience. As the sauce thickens, it will coat the chicken beautifully and enhance the flavor profile. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially towards the end. If it thickens more than you'd like, you can always add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it without losing flavor. Keep a close eye on it during the final simmer to avoid over-reduction.

When mashing the potatoes, starting with warm milk and butter can prevent the potatoes from cooling too quickly. Use a hand masher for a rustic texture; if you prefer a smoother dish, consider using a ricer, but avoid a food processor to evade any gluey potatoes. Adding the milk gradually allows you to control the creaminess, so add it slowly until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
¼ cup butter
½ cup milk

Now that you have everything you need, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and delicious dish:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute before adding the chicken thighs. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the chicken is browned on both sides.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken simmers, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash to your desired consistency.

Serve

Plate a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken and sauce. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy chicken and mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can incorporate some sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli into the dish. Also, be sure to use a good quality chicken broth for the best results.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be made in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. If the sauce has thickened, a few splashes of chicken broth will help bring it back to life.

Mashed potatoes are best when consumed fresh, but they can also be made ahead. If you do prepare them in advance, keep them in the refrigerator and cover them tightly. Reheat gently on low heat with a bit of extra milk to restore their creamy texture. Avoid reheating on high as it can lead to uneven heating and make them sticky.

For longer storage, both components freeze well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, allowing for easy meals later. The chicken sauce can be frozen for up to three months. To make it convenient, consider freezing the mashed potatoes in individual servings as well. Just remember to let both cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily mix in vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor. For instance, adding peas or carrots during the last few minutes of cooking can provide a pop of color and sweetness. You can also incorporate spinach or kale in the sauce for added greens. Just fold them in right before serving so they wilt perfectly without losing their vibrant color.

For a twist on the flavors, consider adding Dijon mustard or lemon juice to the sauce for a zesty kick. A splash of white wine during the simmering process can also introduce an additional depth of flavor, balancing the creaminess. If you want to spice things up, a pinch of red pepper flakes or smokey paprika can add an exciting dimension to the dish.

If you're looking to substitute for a gluten-free option, ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free. The recipe is already inherently gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions. Additionally, to make it dairy-free, follow the cream substitution recommendation earlier; just ensure that the potato preparation remains dairy-free by using appropriate alternatives for milk and butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out quicker. Make sure to monitor the cooking time.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat before serving. Just add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

→ What other sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed green beans or a side salad make great accompaniments to add some freshness.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes healthier?

Yes! You can substitute the butter and milk with olive oil and a splash of low-fat milk or use a cauliflower mash for a lighter version.