Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting
I love to prepare a dish that wraps you up in nostalgia, and for me, nothing beats creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. This recipe combines tender chicken in a rich, savory sauce with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes that create the ultimate comfort meal. Whether it's a chilly evening or a special family gathering, this dish always brings warmth and satisfaction. The best part? It's straightforward to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones, turning any meal into a memorable occasion.
Making creamy chicken and mashed potatoes has always been a go-to for me when I want to impress guests without stress. I found that cooking the chicken slowly in the skillet allows it to absorb those incredible flavors while keeping it juicy. It’s a technique I use often, and it never fails!
When it comes to the mashed potatoes, I swear by using a mix of butter and cream for that unbeatable creaminess. Don't skimp on seasoning either; it’s what elevates the dish and truly brings everything together. Trust me, pay attention to those little details, and you’ll have everyone begging for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy, rich sauce that's bursting with flavor
- Fluffy mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with savory chicken
- A comforting dish that feels like a warm hug
The Importance of Proper Chicken Cooking
Cooking the chicken correctly is crucial for achieving the desired tenderness and flavor. When browning the chicken, ensure the skillet is preheated to medium heat, which allows for that beautiful golden crust to form. It's essential to avoid overcrowding the pan; if the skillet is too full, the chicken will steam rather than sear. Make sure to flip the chicken only once to achieve even browning on both sides and retain moisture within the meat.
During the simmering stage, the addition of chicken broth not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist. As it simmers, the steam creates an ideal cooking environment, ensuring that the chicken does not dry out. Remember to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption. If you notice the sauce thickening too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth to maintain a nice creamy consistency.
Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes
The key to buttery, creamy mashed potatoes lies in the type of potatoes used. Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal since they break down easily and absorb flavors better. Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform quarters for even cooking. Once boiled, ensure they are drained thoroughly; any excess water can lead to soupy mashed potatoes. I like to return them to the pot for a minute off the heat, which allows them to steam dry and enhances their fluffiness.
As you mash the potatoes, opt for a potato masher or ricer, depending on your preferred texture. A ricer gives an ultra-smooth finish, while a masher yields a slightly chunkier consistency. Incorporating warm butter and cream ensures that the potatoes absorb these ingredients evenly, contributing to their luxurious mouthfeel. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper gradually; it’s always easier to add than to fix over-salting.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for smooth preparation!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a comforting meal:
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken is cooking, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth.
Serve
On a plate, spoon mashed potatoes and top with a generous helping of creamy chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or peas to the chicken while it simmers. It adds not only taste but also a lovely color to the dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or entertaining. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce up to two days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheating is a breeze—warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until heated through. To reheat mashed potatoes, add a splash of cream and stir over low heat until warmed, or microwave in short bursts.
If you aim to freeze the dish, I recommend doing so separately. The chicken and sauce freeze well for up to three months. For the mashed potatoes, consider adding a bit more cream when freezing, as they might thicken upon thawing. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal without spending an excessive amount of time in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing this creamy chicken with seasonal vegetables like sautéed green beans or roasted carrots for added texture and color. A light salad served alongside can also balance the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mashed potatoes before serving for a savory twist.
For dietary adjustments, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. If you're looking to cut down on carbs, try using cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes—a great choice that complements the creamy chicken beautifully while keeping the dish light.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed and cooked thoroughly for best results.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes ahead. Reheat them before serving for the best flavor.
Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
I love to prepare a dish that wraps you up in nostalgia, and for me, nothing beats creamy chicken and mashed potatoes. This recipe combines tender chicken in a rich, savory sauce with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes that create the ultimate comfort meal. Whether it's a chilly evening or a special family gathering, this dish always brings warmth and satisfaction. The best part? It's straightforward to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones, turning any meal into a memorable occasion.
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Hearty & Comforting
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Add chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until cooked through. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
While the chicken is cooking, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth.
On a plate, spoon mashed potatoes and top with a generous helping of creamy chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or peas to the chicken while it simmers. It adds not only taste but also a lovely color to the dish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g