Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Moments
When I think of cozy meals, nothing beats the comforting embrace of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes. I love how this dish warms me from the inside out, especially on chilly evenings. The creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken pairs perfectly with the buttery mashed potatoes, making every bite a delightful sensation. It's a dish that not only fills the stomach but also fills the heart with warmth and nostalgia. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always brings smiles around the table.
After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that using a blend of chicken thighs and chicken breast brings the ideal mix of flavor and tenderness. I also discovered that a hint of garlic and a splash of white wine in the creamy sauce elevates the dish to new heights. Cooking the chicken until golden brown first ensures a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible.
Pairing the chicken with velvety mashed potatoes created the ultimate comfort food experience. I enjoy using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess, and a touch of sour cream adds that little zing. This recipe has become a staple in my home, cherished by my family every time I serve it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy sauce that wraps the chicken in rich flavors
- Silky mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
- Perfect balance of savory and comfort in every bite
The Role of Cream in the Sauce
The heavy cream used in this recipe is essential for creating a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. It provides a rich mouthfeel and balances the savory notes of the chicken broth and onion. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, but be aware that this may reduce the sauce's creaminess and depth of flavor.
When adding cream, make sure to reduce the heat to medium-low after incorporating it into the skillet. This prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth, cohesive sauce. Watch for a gentle simmer; if you see bubbles vigorously breaking the surface, lower the heat. You want the sauce to thicken without boiling aggressively.
Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes is vital for achieving creamy mashed potatoes. Yukon Golds are ideal due to their natural butteriness and smooth texture. They hold their shape well when boiled but become wonderfully fluffy when mashed. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try substituting the butter with olive oil and the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt or coconut cream for a similar texture.
For the best mashed potatoes, ensure your potatoes are fully cooked before mashing. A fork should easily pierce them. Overcooking can lead to watery mash, while undercooking can result in a lumpy texture. When mashing, use a potato ricer or a food mill for the smoothest consistency—avoid over-mashing to prevent a gummy result.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Make sure everything is prepared before starting to cook. This will make the process smoother!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your comforting dish:
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
Add Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Make Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the mashed potatoes with topped chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Remember to savor every bite! This recipe is perfect for leftovers too, if you have any!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the broth and some spices for a few hours before cooking. You can also substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftovers, let the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This dish can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the mashed potatoes. When reheating, warm the chicken sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent it from separating.
Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, but they tend to lose their creamy texture after thawing. If freezing, consider adding a touch more butter or cream upon reheating to restore some moisture. Always heat mashed potatoes in a covered dish in the microwave or oven to help them reabsorb steam and retain softness.
Variations to Try
For a twist on flavor, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce while it simmers. Additionally, incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach can add an extra layer of depth and nutrition. You might also consider using chicken breast alone for a leaner dish, adjusting the cooking time since chicken breast cooks faster than thighs.
If you're feeling adventurous, try spicing up the sauce with a hint of Dijon mustard or lemon juice for brightness. This can complement the richness of the cream and elevate the overall flavor profile. Don't hesitate to get creative with your sides; steamed green beans or a crisp side salad provide freshness to balance the richness of the sauce and potatoes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use only chicken breast or thighs, or even substitute with turkey for a similar taste.
→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve alongside this dish?
A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs beautifully with this comforting chicken and potatoes.
Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
When I think of cozy meals, nothing beats the comforting embrace of creamy chicken and fluffy mashed potatoes. I love how this dish warms me from the inside out, especially on chilly evenings. The creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken pairs perfectly with the buttery mashed potatoes, making every bite a delightful sensation. It's a dish that not only fills the stomach but also fills the heart with warmth and nostalgia. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always brings smiles around the table.
Created by: Clara Jennings
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Moments
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.
Plate the mashed potatoes with topped chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the broth and some spices for a few hours before cooking. You can also substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 32g