Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup cream cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort

I absolutely adore this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe! The combination of tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce paired with fluffy mashed potatoes brings back so many fond memories of family dinners. As I prepared this dish, the aroma of herbs and butter filled my kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that made my mouth water. This recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:45:34.254Z

When I first tried making Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes, I was surprised by how easy and rewarding it was! The key is to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. I sear the chicken before simmering it in a creamy sauce spiced with thyme and garlic, which elevates the dish immensely. It’s not just about filling your stomach, but about creating a warm, hearty meal that comforts the soul.

One of the best tips I can share is to whip your mashed potatoes with a bit of cream cheese or sour cream right before serving. This gives them a luxurious texture that perfectly complements the creamy chicken. Each bite feels indulgent, reminding me of homemade meals shared with loved ones. It's a recipe that has earned its spot in my comfort food rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are irresistibly buttery
Perfect for cozy evenings or celebrating with family

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The skin adds flavor and richness as it crisps up during cooking, while the bones keep the meat moist and tender. If you prefer a leaner option, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful to adjust the cooking time to avoid dryness. Breasts typically cook faster, so check their doneness after about 15 minutes.

Seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavor in the chicken. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and dried thyme complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano, but keep in mind that these can alter the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Mastering Creamy Mashed Potatoes

When making mashed potatoes, the type and treatment of the potatoes matter. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which creates a fluffier mash. Be sure to cut them into uniform pieces—about 1 to 2 inches—so they cook evenly. Start with cold, salted water to ensure the potatoes cook uniformly; bring it to a boil and then simmer until tender, usually about 15 minutes.

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, it’s essential to mash the potatoes while they’re still hot. This helps to incorporate the milk, butter, and cream cheese smoothly. Avoid over-mashing, as this can lead to a gummy texture. A potato ricer or food mill can yield an ultra-smooth mash if you prefer. For flavor variations, consider mixing in roasted garlic or fresh herbs to elevate the classic taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup cream cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and add garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute.

Add Liquid

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let cook for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, simmering for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan and coat it with the sauce.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy.

Serve Together

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

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or a splash of white wine to the chicken sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes can be partially prepared ahead of time for efficient weeknight cooking. The chicken can be cooked and the creamy sauce made in advance; just reheat gently in a skillet before serving to maintain its creamy texture. As for the mashed potatoes, they can also be made a few hours earlier and kept warm in a slow cooker on low heat, or you can refrigerate them and reheat with a splash of milk added.

If you choose to make the dish completely in advance, both components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes will keep it warm throughout and allow the flavors to meld together again.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience, consider serving this dish with a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, which add freshness and a pop of color. A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the chicken and potatoes beautifully.

For a touch of elegance, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds an appealing contrast of color but also a fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds another layer of flavor intensity and a mild kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, boneless chicken will work, but it may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make the mashed potatoes healthier?

You can substitute some of the butter and cream cheese with Greek yogurt or add steamed cauliflower to the mash.

→ What other herbs work well in the sauce?

Rosemary and parsley are great alternatives if you prefer a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, both the chicken and mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.