Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons garlic butter; 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or rosemary); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I love a comforting meal that brings happiness to the table, and this Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken does just that. The creaminess of the mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the succulent, buttery chicken. I think transforming a simple ingredient into an uplifting dish is magic in the kitchen, and this recipe does that wonderfully. Whether you're serving it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will leave satisfied. It’s a classic dish with a flavorful twist that never disappoints!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:20:46.859Z

This recipe for Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. The rich flavor of the garlic butter perfectly complements the tenderness of the chicken, while the creamy mashed potatoes add an extra layer of satisfaction. I recommend using fresh garlic for the butter because it enhances the aroma and taste significantly—it's a small detail that makes a big difference!

During my early attempts, I didn't realize the importance of letting the chicken rest after cooking; it helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat is as tender as possible. Also, incorporating warm milk and butter into the potatoes while mashing prevents them from becoming gluey, resulting in the perfect fluffy texture. This dish has truly become an expression of comfort and togetherness at my dining table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy mashed potatoes infused with buttery garlic flavor
Tender chicken that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy preparation for effortless weeknight meals

      

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the perfect creamy texture for your mashed potatoes, it's crucial to choose the right type of potatoes. Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds yield a fluffy mash, while waxy potatoes can make the mix gluey. As you cook the potatoes in salted water, keep an eye on the timer and check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. You want them soft enough that they break apart easily, typically after 15-20 minutes, but not overcooked to the point of falling apart.

When mashing, I recommend using either a potato masher or a ricer for the best results. A ricer will give you an exceptionally smooth texture, which is fantastic if you prefer that. Make sure the milk and butter are warm before adding them to the pot, as this helps them incorporate more evenly, leading to a luscious consistency without any lumps. I often whisk in the salt and pepper after mashing, tasting as I go to achieve the ideal seasoning balance.

Cooking the Garlic Butter Chicken

Timing is key when cooking the chicken to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful. Begin by heating your skillet to medium heat, which allows for even cooking without the risk of burning the garlic butter. If the butter starts bubbling too aggressively, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low. When seasoned, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and avoid crowding them—this allows for better browning. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown exterior, indicating a beautiful caramelization.

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking is essential; this allows the juices to redistribute, preventing a dry texture. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine into the skillet after removing the chicken to scrape up those flavorful brown bits. You can drizzle this sauce over the chicken and mashed potatoes for rich, complementary flavors.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Chicken

4 chicken breasts
4 tablespoons garlic butter
1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the garlic butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return to the pot. Add the warm milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until creamy.

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it over a generous helping of the mashed potatoes. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter from the skillet.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes instead of plain garlic. It deepens the flavor and gives a sweet, caramelized touch to the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, both the mashed potatoes and the garlic butter chicken freeze remarkably well. For mashed potatoes, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of milk and warm them on the stovetop over low heat to restore their creamy texture, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

The cooked chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, I suggest using the microwave at medium power to maintain juiciness, or you can pop it back into a skillet with a little bit of water or broth. Covering it will help steam the chicken and keep it moist, avoiding the dreaded dryness that can occur with even a short reheating period.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands well on its own, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrition. Roasted Brussels sprouts or tender asparagus pairs beautifully with the flavors in this recipe, offering a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, over the top before serving for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.

If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, try a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the mashed potatoes right before serving. It will add a savory depth that complements the garlic butter chicken perfectly. For variations, mushrooms sautéed in the leftover garlic butter can be served on the side or over the chicken, providing an earthy contrast to the rich flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used for a different texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free version and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad make excellent sides that complement this dish.