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: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes, especially on cozy nights when I crave something warm and hearty. The combination of tender chicken enveloped in a rich cream sauce, paired with velvety mashed potatoes, never fails to satisfy my taste buds. Preparing this meal allows me to give my family a delicious taste of home-cooked goodness, and the best part is how easily everything comes together in about an hour. This recipe has become a beloved staple in our home, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:29:34.428Z

When I first made Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes, it quickly became a favorite in our household. I experimented with various herbs and spices, finally landing on a simple blend that elevates the dish without overpowering the flavors. Using fresh herbs really brings that home-cooked taste to life, and I love how the creamy sauce complements the fluffy mashed potatoes.

One of my favorite tips is to let the mashed potatoes rest for a few minutes after cooking them. This small step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the perfect texture. Trust me, this dish is a hug in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!

3 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
Fluffy mashed potatoes that are buttery and smooth
Perfect for cozy family dinners and gatherings

The Perfect Cream Sauce

Creating the creamy sauce is the heart of this recipe. By sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil, you're developing foundational flavors that will deepen as you add the chicken and cream. Ensure your heat is at medium to allow the onions to become translucent without burning, which can lead to unwanted bitterness. This creamy mixture should simmer gently; a small bubble or two is perfect, as vigorous boiling may cause cream to curdle or separate.

The key to a well-balanced sauce lies in seasoning. Adding salt and pepper is essential, but be sure to taste as you go. The herbs, thyme and rosemary, not only impart flavor but also complement the richness of the cream beautifully. For a slight kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to thicken until it coats the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 15 minutes of simmering. This texture ensures that every bite has a luxurious experience.

Mastering Mashed Potatoes

For perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes, it’s crucial to choose the right type of potato. I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes; they have a high starch content that gives the best creamy texture. When boiling the potatoes, ensure the water is salted well, which enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes during cooking. Once tender, a quick mashing followed by gentle mixing ensures that your potatoes remain light and airy, avoiding that gummy consistency that can occur from overworking.

In terms of butter and milk, adding them while the potatoes are still hot allows for better absorption and a smoother finish. If you find your mashed potatoes too thick, you can add more milk gradually until you achieve your desired texture. For a richer flavor, I sometimes use half-and-half instead of milk. Lastly, don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt before serving — well-seasoned potatoes are the perfect base for the creamy chicken.

Ingredients:

Chicken and Sauce Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Cooking Steps:

Prepare the Chicken Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the shredded chicken, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for about 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes, cooking until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, and salt, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve Together

Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some vegetables like carrots or peas with the onion and garlic. You can also top the mashed potatoes with some shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the creamy chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it on low on the stove before serving. As for mashed potatoes, they can be made and frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can revive their creamy texture.

If you're short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken from the store. This can significantly cut down on your prep time, allowing you to focus on making the sauce and mashed potatoes. Simply shred the chicken and toss it into the skillet with your other ingredients, and you'll have dinner ready in no time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes with a side of steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli. This not only adds vibrant color but also a nutritious element that balances the richness of the dish. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast that enhances the comfort of the meal.

For a cozy family dinner, I like to serve this dish in deep bowls with crusty bread on the side. The bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and mashed potatoes, making every bite more delightful. If you’re feeling adventurous, topping the dish with some crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add an unexpected crunch and flavor boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen shredded chicken. Just make sure to fully cook it through in the sauce.

→ What type of potatoes are best for mashing?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy mashed potatoes.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken sauce and mashed potatoes a day in advance; simply reheat before serving.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat milk and cream, or substituting Greek yogurt for some of the cream in the sauce.