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 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional Cozy Cooking

I absolutely love indulging in Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes on chilly days. The rich flavors and smooth texture wrap around you like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy dinners. This recipe combines tender chicken in a luscious cream sauce with buttery mashed potatoes that are irresistible. There’s nothing better than digging into a hearty, satisfying meal, and this dish definitely delivers that experience. Plus, it’s super simple to make, allowing me to whip it up even on my busiest nights.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:21:34.888Z

When I first tried making creamy chicken and mashed potatoes, I was amazed at how comforting and satisfying the dish turned out to be. I experimented with different herbs and spices, ultimately discovering that thyme and garlic elevate the cream sauce beautifully. The process was straightforward, yet the results felt gourmet!

One particular tip I learned was to make sure to mash the potatoes while they're still hot for the creamiest texture. Mixing in a good amount of butter and a splash of milk made all the difference. Now, this has become our go-to recipe for family gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy flavor that warms the soul
Perfectly seasoned chicken that melts in your mouth
Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes that complement the dish beautifully

The Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect mashed potatoes is all about the technique. After boiling the cubed potatoes for about 15 minutes, ensure they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This ensures your potatoes have the right consistency, allowing for a smooth mash without any lumps. Using a potato ricer can make this process even easier. Just pass the potatoes through the ricer before adding butter and milk for an ultra-creamy texture.

Selecting the right potatoes also plays an essential role in the outcome. Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for mashed potatoes because they break down easily when boiled, providing that fluffy consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can result in gluey mashes. Also, be cautious with salt; start with a little, and adjust to taste during the mashing process.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or a sprinkle of nutmeg while mashing. Mixing in cream cheese or sour cream can enhance the richness, but be mindful not to overpower the buttery flavor. If you're preparing these ahead of time, you can boil and mash the potatoes, then refrigerate them; just warm them up on the stovetop, stirring in a bit of milk to bring them back to life.

Homemade Creamy Chicken Sauce

The cream sauce is the star of this dish, and the secret lies in how you build the flavors. Start by sautéing the garlic in the skillet to release its aromatic qualities before adding the shredded chicken. This way, your chicken gains a subtle garlic essence that complements the creamy base. Maintaining a medium heat allows the sauce to thicken without burning, stirring occasionally for even consistency.

Using a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth contributes to a rich, yet balanced sauce. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling. Balancing the seasoning with thyme and fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the dish further, infusing it with a fresh, aromatic quality that perfectly contrasts the creamy richness.

Don't be afraid to experiment by adding vegetables like peas or spinach for a nutritional boost. If using frozen, add them into the sauce as it simmers to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Should you find the sauce too thick after simmering, a splash of additional chicken broth can help adjust the consistency. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for the best flavor.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

In a large pot, boil the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, and salt. Mash until creamy and smooth. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken in Cream Sauce

In a skillet, combine the shredded chicken, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve the Dish

Plate the buttery mashed potatoes and top with the creamy chicken sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes or a dash of lemon juice to the creamy chicken sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're short on time, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the cream sauce and mashed potatoes separately. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just ensure to store each component in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, defrost the sauce overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on low heat, adding a bit of broth as needed for a silky texture.

When reheating mashed potatoes, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to restore their desired consistency. Use a microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw first for the best texture. This not only saves you precious time during busy weeknights but also ensures you get to enjoy this comforting dish whenever you desire.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans to add crunch and freshness. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, enhancing the meal experience. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of lemon zest over the chicken can add a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.

For a different spin, you may try swapping the chicken for turkey, or even shredded beef, depending on what you have on hand. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, substituting the chicken with mushrooms and using vegetable broth can create a similarly satisfying meal. Don't hesitate to add your favorite cheese into the creamy sauce, like Parmesan or cheddar, to introduce new dimensions of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and cook it before shredding.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half or a non-dairy cream can work as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and mashed potatoes separately and combine them shortly before serving.