Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Stories

I absolutely love recipes that remind me of home, and this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish does just that. The creamy texture of the chicken, combined with fluffy mashed potatoes, makes for a cozy meal that warms the soul. Every time I prepare this recipe, it brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that highlights the beauty of comfort food at its finest.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:54:34.957Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted something that would satisfy both hunger and nostalgia. The combination of chicken simmered in a creamy sauce with perfectly whipped mashed potatoes was a no-brainer. It's a simple dish that showcases how interesting flavors can come together beautifully.

One useful tip I discovered is to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and moisture. This makes the dish even more decadent. The rich creaminess paired with buttery, fluffy potatoes creates a harmony in every bite, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that enhances the tender chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of flavor
Quick and easy preparation perfect for a weeknight meal

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy sauce that transforms ordinary chicken into a comforting meal. Using heavy cream and chicken broth brings a luxurious texture to the sauce. Allowing the mixture to simmer for 25 minutes is crucial; during this time, the flavors meld, and the sauce thickens, ensuring a rich, glossy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of additional chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

When simmering the chicken, watch for bubbling along the edges of the skillet. This indicates that the sauce is reaching the right temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If your chicken thighs are particularly large, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they're fully cooked and tender.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

Choosing the right potatoes is key to achieving fluffy mashed potatoes. I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds; they break down easily and yield a light, airy texture. Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, and then drain them thoroughly. Returning them to the hot pot briefly can help evaporate any excess moisture, leading to creamier potatoes.

When mashing, the order you add ingredients matters. Start with the butter, allowing it to melt into the hot potatoes before adding milk. This ensures that the butter emulsifies fully, creating a creamy consistency. If you prefer a more rustic mash, use a potato masher for a chunkier texture. Be cautious with salt; taste as you go to find the perfect balance.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation process smoother:

For the Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Now that you have your ingredients, let's move on to preparing this delightful dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken mixture. Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy this heartwarming dish, perfect for any occasion.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding in some fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to lighten up the dish, consider swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the richness of the sauce, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. If you want to up the flavor profile, adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can introduce a delightful acidity that complements the creaminess and chicken beautifully.

In place of chicken thighs, boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option; however, they may require less cooking time, so check for doneness around 20 minutes of simmering. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas to soak up the creamy sauce while still enjoying maximum flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers to retain their textures. The creamy chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, while mashed potatoes can last about four days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the potatoes to restore their creaminess as they can dry out in the fridge.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This will preserve the velvety sauce, ensuring that your comfort meal feels just as satisfying the second time around.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for more moisture and flavor.

→ How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?

Add more butter or cream, and make sure to mash them while they are hot.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day ahead, just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A light salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this creamy dish.