Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup whole milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions

When I think of cozy evenings, nothing beats a plate of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes. I love how the tender chicken is enveloped in a luscious, herb-infused sauce that seeps into the buttery potatoes. This dish combines warming comfort with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. It's one of those meals that brings everyone together, and the aroma filling the house is simply irresistible. Let me share my version that’s rich and satisfying, without being overly complicated.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.017Z

My journey with this creamy chicken and mashed potatoes began during a chilly autumn evening. I tried many variations, but the magic truly happened when I added a splash of white wine to the sauce. It adds depth to the flavors that just can't be replicated with broth alone. I also discovered that using a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes creates a perfect fluffy texture for the mash.

The key to making this dish shine is letting the chicken brown properly before adding other ingredients. It enhances the overall flavor and gives the sauce a beautiful base. I like to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness, making every plate feel gourmet.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, savory sauce packed with flavor
Perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes that pair beautifully
A comforting dish that warms the soul

      

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve the ideal sear on your chicken, ensure that your skillet is hot before adding the chicken breasts. This will create a beautiful, golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. If the chicken releases too easily from the skillet, you may need to increase the heat slightly or wait a bit longer before flipping. Likewise, ensuring the chicken is at room temperature can help it cook evenly.

Don't skip the step of deglazing the pan with white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. This adds depth to the sauce by incorporating the flavorful brown bits left in the skillet. Choose a dry white wine, as it complements the heavy cream and balances the richness. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

The Art of Mashed Potatoes

For the fluffiest mashed potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes are a top choice due to their creamy texture. When boiling, ensure that the potatoes are the same size to cook evenly. Start in cold water, bringing them to a gentle boil to avoid a mushy exterior. To check for doneness, they should pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape until drained and mashed.

While mixing butter and milk into the mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or a ricer for the best results. Over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture, so I recommend being gentle and stopping as soon as they reach your desired creaminess. Adjust the seasoning gradually since both butter and milk contain some salt—this way, you can ensure they don’t end up too seasoned.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this comforting dish.

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have these ingredients on hand for a delightful cook.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious meal.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, deglazing the pan, then add the chicken broth. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

Combine and Cook

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for another 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them with butter and milk, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to the sauce. You can also use a mix of chicken thighs for a richer taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken dish can be prepped ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in your favorite herbs and spices a few hours prior or even the night before to enhance flavors. Prepare the sauce in advance, store it separately, and combine it with the seared chicken just before serving. This keeps the dish as fresh as possible while saving you time during busy weeknights.

As for the mashed potatoes, you can make them up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove over low heat, stirring in a little extra milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. This way, you will save time and still enjoy perfectly fluffy potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, consider garnishing your creamy chicken with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme just before serving. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper also adds a nice visual contrast and an extra kick of flavor. Pair this dish with steamed green beans or a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and potatoes.

If you want to vary your flavor profile, experiment with adding vegetables to the sauce. Spinach or mushrooms work wonderfully when sautéed with the onions and garlic, adding both depth of flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, consider serving the creamy chicken over rice or pasta for a different twist, turning this dish into an entirely new meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk alternative.

→ Can I prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

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

→ What vegetables can I serve with this dish?

Steamed broccoli or green beans complement this dish nicely.