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 chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chives for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely adore this Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe; it brings back such warm memories of family gatherings. The creamy chicken is rich and flavorful, perfectly paired with buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. I find that the combination of savory herbs and wholesome ingredients makes every bite feel like a warm hug. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to showcase your cooking skills without spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:29:34.889Z

When I first made this dish, I remember being pleasantly surprised at how quickly everything came together. The creaminess of the chicken is achieved through a simple roux, which I find makes it feel light yet indulgent. Using fresh herbs added a depth of flavor that bottled seasonings just can’t replicate, and it truly elevates the meal.

One of the best tips I can offer is to mash the potatoes while they’re still warm, ensuring they absorb the butter and cream perfectly. I like to pair them with a sprinkle of fresh chives, which adds a lovely pop of color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy chicken that envelops your taste buds with flavor
Buttery mashed potatoes that are irresistibly fluffy
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

Crafting the Creamy Chicken

When making the creamy chicken, ensure that your cooked chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken to absorb the rich broth and cream, leading to a more cohesive dish. I often recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it adds a depth of flavor without the extra cooking time. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as rotisserie chicken can be saltier than homemade options.

After adding the chicken, broth, and cream, let the mixture simmer gently over medium heat. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld. Watch for the sauce to thicken slightly, becoming creamy and glossy, which indicates it’s ready to serve. If it looks too thin, let it simmer longer or mix in a cornstarch slurry to achieve a thicker consistency.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

For the mashed potatoes, selecting the right type of potato is key. I prefer using Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture once mashed. When boiling, make sure the potatoes are cut into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook uniformly. This usually takes about 15 minutes, but it's best to check them with a fork for tenderness; they should not fall apart.

When mashing, use a potato masher or a ricer for the fluffiest potatoes. If you like a bit of texture, stick with a masher rather than a food processor, which can make the potatoes gummy. Stir in the butter and cream while the potatoes are still warm to maximize absorption for that irresistible creamy finish. You can adjust the cream quantity based on your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy chicken and mashed potatoes dish is a blank canvas for creativity. Consider adding a variety of vegetables, like peas or carrots, to the creamy chicken mixture for added nutrition and color. You can also top it with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try swapping half of the heavy cream in both components with Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess.

For make-ahead options, the creamy chicken can be prepared and refrigerated a day in advance; just reheat it gently to maintain the creaminess. The mashed potatoes can also be made beforehand and stored in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to restore their texture and fluffiness. Serve it all with a dash of fresh herbs to elevate the dish just before serving!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken:

For the Creamy Chicken

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnish

Instructions:

Instructions

How to Make Comfort Food Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes:

Prepare the Creamy Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Stir in shredded chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is simmering, boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter and cream, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is creamy and the potatoes are fluffy, serve the chicken over a generous helping of mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh chives and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or peas into the chicken mixture. You can also swap out heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter option!

Storage and Reheating Tips

After enjoying your comforting meal, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the creamy chicken and mashed potatoes separately. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a bit of extra cream or broth during reheating prevents dryness and keeps the dish luscious.

If you freeze the dish, it's best to do so before adding any garnishes, like chives, which can wilt and lose their flavor upon thawing. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat without the garnish and add fresh chives before serving for that pop of color and flavor.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, confirm that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands can contain gluten. Additionally, for a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can be used instead of heavy cream, bringing a unique flavor while maintaining the dish's rich texture.

Vegetarians can replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or tempeh, which will absorb the sauce flavors beautifully. If you’re making mashed potatoes for a vegan diner, omit the butter and use a vegan butter substitute alongside plant-based cream to keep the dish deliciously creamy.

Exploring Flavor Enhancements

You can elevate the flavor profile of the creamy chicken by experimenting with additional herbs and spices. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can introduce a subtle heat that complements the creaminess beautifully. I sometimes add a splash of white wine to the skillet while sautéing the onions for a depth of flavor that transforms the dish.

Don’t underestimate the power of good seasoning. A balance of salt and pepper is essential, but ensuring you're tasting as you go can elevate your dish significantly. A sprinkle of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and add a delightful finish to this hearty meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes in advance, just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A green salad or steamed vegetables pair perfectly with this creamy dish!

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that the chicken broth used is gluten-free.