Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! Growing up, chicken and mashed potatoes were staples in my home, and this dish brings back those cherished memories. I find comfort in the creamy, buttery potatoes paired with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special dish to share with friends, this recipe never fails to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to make and is sure to warm your heart on even the coldest days.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:28:10.253Z

When I first made this chicken and mashed potatoes dish, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it turned out. The secret lies in marinating the chicken in a blend of herbs and spices before cooking, allowing those flavors to seep in deeply, creating a wonderfully aromatic meal. I also like to use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture when mashed; they elevate the dish to a whole new level of comfort.

As I whipped up the creamy mashed potatoes, I added just the right amount of cream and butter, ensuring they were rich yet balanced. Serving them with the chicken’s delicious gravy creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. This dish has since become a family favorite, and I've learned that it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tender and juicy chicken that's bursting with flavor
Creamy mashed potatoes that are irresistibly comforting
A hearty meal that brings family and friends together
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

Cooking Chicken to Perfection

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, it's essential to give it proper attention during the searing process. Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the marinated chicken breasts. Look for a golden brown crust to form, which will take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Avoid flipping too soon; wait until the chicken releases easily from the pan. This technique not only enhances flavor through caramelization but also locks in the juices, ensuring a tender result.

Using a meat thermometer can be a game-changer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the ideal internal temperature of 165°F. This step prevents overcooking and drying out the meat. If you find your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying them for faster cooking or using the back of a heavy pan to pound them to an even thickness before marinating.

Mastering Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The choice of potatoes significantly impacts the texture of your mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are particularly suited for this dish due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Be sure to cut them into even-sized cubes before boiling, which allows for consistent cooking. They should boil for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook and become waterlogged.

Once drained, returning the potatoes to the pot and letting them steam for a minute before mashing helps evaporate excess moisture, resulting in fluffier mashed potatoes. For the creamiest texture, I recommend using a potato ricer or a food mill instead of a traditional masher, as this prevents overworking the starches that can lead to gummy potatoes.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving, I like to create a hearty presentation by placing a generous scoop of mashed potatoes at the center of each plate and topping it with the chicken breasts. Pour the warm gravy over the chicken, letting it cascade down to the sides of the potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives to add a pop of color and a light oniony flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the chicken and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave and give the mashed potatoes a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess before serving. For longer storage, both can be frozen, but note that mashed potatoes may lose some texture when thawed and reheated.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Gravy

Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping the bottom to deglaze it. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet to coat it with gravy.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a large pot, boil the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Mash the Potatoes

Add heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes with the chicken on top and drizzle with the gravy. Garnish with chopped chives and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes or experimenting with herbs such as thyme or rosemary in your chicken marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dish, consider using skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts; they offer more flavor and remain moist during cooking. For a dairy-free alternative in the mashed potatoes, you can substitute almond or coconut milk for heavy cream and use a dairy-free butter substitute or olive oil for richness.

For an herby twist in the mashed potatoes, try mixing in roasted garlic or adding a hint of sour cream for additional creaminess and tang. If you're in a pinch, instant potatoes can work as a quick alternative, though they won’t have the same homemade feel.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken seems dry after cooking, consider adjusting the cooking time on your next attempt. Insufficient marinating time or cooking at too high a temperature can lead to dryness. Remember, each stove is different, so observe your chicken closely and adjust accordingly.

In case your gravy doesn’t thicken as desired, try adding a mixture of cornstarch and cold water while it’s simmering, stirring frequently until it coats the back of a spoon. Additionally, if the mashed potatoes are too lumpy, you can return them to the stove on low heat and stir continuously while mashing again until smooth.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the traditional route, consider adding different toppings to your mashed potatoes, such as roasted garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. You could also stir in some grated cheese for added richness or even swap out some of the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter dish.

If you're feeling adventurous, try braising the chicken with your favorite herbs and a splash of white wine for added flavor before returning to the skillet for the final cook. Experimenting with different seasonings will allow you to craft a unique version that's tailored to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in mashed potatoes?

You can use milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the texture will be somewhat different.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes a day in advance and reheat before serving.