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 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I truly believe comfort food has the power to lift our spirits, and nothing does that quite like creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. This dish has become a family favorite, with its rich flavors and satisfying textures that evoke feelings of warmth and coziness. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken, while the fluffy mashed potatoes provide the perfect canvas for each savory bite. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy this recipe brings to the table—it’s simply irresistible!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:22:35.561Z

When I first tried making creamy chicken and mashed potatoes, I was looking for a recipe that felt comforting yet also allowed me to incorporate fresh herbs. The combination of lovingly cooked chicken simmered in a creamy sauce paired with buttery mashed potatoes is a culinary hug on a plate. I often add a sprinkle of thyme for depth, which takes the entire dish to the next level.

One detail I discovered that made all the difference was using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re naturally juicier and more flavorful, ensuring that every bite is tender and succulent. I also make my mashed potatoes from scratch, taking the time to whip them until they’re light and creamy, which makes this comfort food genuinely spectacular!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that comforts your soul
Buttery mashed potatoes that are delightfully fluffy
Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings

      

Importance of Quality Ingredients

The quality of the chicken in this recipe makes a significant impact on the overall flavor. Opting for skinless, boneless chicken thighs is ideal due to their juiciness and tenderness throughout the cooking process. Thighs maintain moisture better than chicken breasts, which can easily dry out. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be cautious to avoid overcooking them, as they become tough when dried out.

For the creamy sauce, using full-fat heavy cream is crucial. It not only contributes to the dish's decadent richness but also helps the sauce achieve the right thickness during simmering. If you're looking for a lower-calorie alternative, consider using a combination of half-and-half and a thickening agent, such as cornstarch mixed with a bit of water, but note that this may slightly alter the creaminess.

Mashed Potatoes: The Perfect Side

Choosing the right type of potato for your mashed potatoes can elevate the dish significantly. Varieties like Yukon Gold or Russets work best due to their starchy texture, resulting in creamy, fluffy potatoes. Be sure to cut your potatoes into evenly-sized quarters before boiling; this ensures that they cook uniformly and reduces the chance of some pieces being mushy while others are still hard.

When mashing, using a potato masher gives you control over the texture. For an ultra-creamy consistency, consider using a ricer or food mill. Start mashing the potatoes just as they become tender, but avoid over-mashing, as this can release excess starch and create a gummy texture. If you’d like to add additional richness, incorporating sour cream or cream cheese into the mash can provide an intriguing flavor twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add chicken thighs to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and mix in heavy cream and thyme. Simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, place the peeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the creamy chicken over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle extra sauce on top and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

To elevate the dish further, consider adding vegetables like peas or carrots for a burst of freshness and color. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to match your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days. After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creamy texture as it heats.

For the mashed potatoes, consider making them ahead as well. Once cooled, store them in the fridge, ideally in a microwave-safe container. To reheat, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in a bit of milk or cream to return the fluffiness lost during storage. This makes it even easier to serve during busy weeknight dinners.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the comfort of this meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli. Their freshness and slight crunch can provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy richness of the chicken and potatoes. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette can also be a refreshing addition to balance the heaviness of the dish.

For those looking to experiment, try adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before the final few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust. Alternatively, swapping thyme for fresh rosemary in the chicken cooks a lovely aromatic flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the cream sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead and reheat them with a bit more milk to restore creaminess.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.

→ What can I add to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor?

Try adding garlic powder, cream cheese, or sour cream for extra richness and flavor.