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 pounds of potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter Chicken, especially on cozy evenings when comfort food is a must. The creamy, buttery potatoes perfectly complement the savory, juicy chicken infused with garlic. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible. What I love most is how easy this dish comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:25:37.205Z

During one of my weekend cooking adventures, I was craving something hearty and flavorful, so I decided to whip up my version of Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter Chicken. I experimented with various seasonings and techniques, and I found that slowly cooking the garlic in butter really brought out its sweetness and depth, marrying beautifully with the chicken.

As I combined the creamy mashed potatoes with the golden-brown chicken, I realized that the key was not just in the ingredients but in the love and care you put into the dish. Each bite was a comforting reminder of what it feels like to enjoy a home-cooked meal with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy mashed potatoes that are rich and buttery
Tender garlic butter chicken bursting with flavor
A cozy meal that brings everyone together

      

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

The key to achieving creamy mashed potatoes lies in the type of potatoes you choose. Starchy potatoes, like Russets, create a fluffier texture, while waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, lend a creamier, buttery feel. If you prefer a lighter mash, you can substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower for a delightful twist. Once cooked, be sure to avoid over-mashing, as this can lead to a gummy texture; just mash until smooth and creamy.

To elevate your mashed potatoes further, consider adding roasted garlic or cream cheese to enhance the richness. Timing is crucial; the potatoes should be cooked just until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Keeping the butter at room temperature helps it melt more efficiently into the potatoes, creating that desired silky finish. For extra flavor, try infusing the milk or butter with herbs or spices before mixing it into your mash.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Chicken

Cooking the chicken thighs to golden perfection is essential to maximize flavor. Start with a hot skillet to ensure a good sear, which helps lock in juices and adds a delicious crust. If you find your chicken isn’t browning, your skillet might not be hot enough—aim for a medium to medium-high heat. For even cooking, allow the thighs to rest before cutting into them, which also helps maintain moisture.

The garlic should be added carefully; sauté it just until fragrant, usually around 30 seconds, to avoid burning, which can impart a bitter taste. This dish also pairs beautifully with fresh herbs; consider adding parsley or basil to brighten up the flavor profile. If you're looking for a bolder twist, consider marinating the chicken in garlic and thyme ahead of time for richer flavor integration.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving this dish, plate the mashed potatoes with the chicken on top to create an appealing presentation. Drizzling the extra garlic butter over the dish not only enhances flavor but also adds a glossy finish that is visually enticing. To add some colorful contrast, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving, providing freshness that complements the rich ingredients.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. For reheating, use a stovetop approach for the chicken to keep it juicy, and add a splash of milk or cream to the mashed potatoes to restore their creamy texture. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to cool everything completely before sealing it in freezer-safe bags.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter Chicken

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

For the Garlic Butter Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the chopped potatoes. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Season the chicken with thyme, salt, and pepper, and add it to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.

Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, serve it atop the creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the dish for extra flavor.

Your dish is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of garlic powder to the mashed potatoes. If you like a bit of zest, consider garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, swap the unsalted butter in the mashed potatoes for olive oil or Greek yogurt. This not only decreases calories but also adds a unique tangy flavor. Additionally, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk without sacrificing the creaminess you desire in mashed potatoes.

For the chicken, feel free to substitute bone-in skin-on pieces for extra flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, extending it to approximately 25-30 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. If garlic isn't your favorite, consider experimenting with other herbs like rosemary or sage to diversify the flavors while still achieving that comforting essence.

Variations to Try

To add depth to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the garlic butter chicken for a hearty twist. These additions not only increase the nutritional value but also add different textures that make the dish even more satisfying. I love using baby spinach as it wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color to the plate.

If you're in the mood for something different, try making garlic butter chicken sliders. Simply shred the cooked chicken, mix with the garlic butter, and serve on slider buns for a fun, casual meal. This variation is perfect for gatherings or game day, and you can serve the mashed potatoes as a creamy topping or side dish for a delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well for mashed potatoes, offering different textures and flavors.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can use olive oil instead of butter and skim milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes and chicken in advance. Just reheat them gently before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.