Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Chicken and Mashed Potatoes for my family. This dish brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, especially on those chilly evenings when all you crave is a hearty meal. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with buttery, creamy mashed potatoes, making it an irresistible combination. Each bite is filled with flavor, and the preparation is surprisingly easy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:16.723Z

As I crafted this Comfort Food Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish, I recalled the first time I made it for a dinner party. My guests were delighted to enjoy the combination of flavors and textures, especially with the homemade gravy I whipped up. It was a breeze to prepare and the results were so comforting that it soon became a staple in our weekly rotation.

One key tip I found is to use starchy potatoes for the mash, as they yield that ultra-creamy texture we all love. Adding a touch of garlic and cream elevates the flavor, and the combination with succulent chicken creates a meal that warms both the heart and the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty, comforting flavors that warm your soul
Perfect balance of savory chicken and creamy potatoes
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknight dinners

      

Perfecting the Chicken

The key to achieving juicy and flavorful chicken in this recipe lies in the seasoning and cooking method. By using skin-on chicken thighs, you not only add a layer of flavor but also keep the meat moist during cooking. Don’t skip the garlic powder; it infuses the chicken with aromatic notes that enhance the overall dish. Searing the chicken skin-side down until golden brown creates a delicious crust, adding texture that complements the tenderness of the meat.

When cooking the chicken, adding chicken broth and fresh thyme helps to create a tender, almost braised effect. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy. Make sure to check the internal temperature; ideally, it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through but not dried out. If you find the broth evaporating too quickly, lower the heat and add a bit more broth to keep the moisture locked in.

Mashed Potatoes Made Right

For the mashed potatoes, the choice of potatoes can significantly impact texture. Yukon Golds are a fantastic option here as they yield a creamy and buttery finish. Be sure to chop them into evenly sized pieces – about 1-inch cubes works well – to ensure they cook uniformly. Boiling until fork-tender is crucial; undercooked potatoes will result in lumps while overcooked potatoes can become waterlogged. Keeping the potatoes covered during cooking helps maintain a steady temperature and even cooking.

When it comes to mashing, I recommend using a potato masher or ricer for the creamiest results. Adding warm heavy cream and butter rather than cold will help them incorporate more smoothly, avoiding any graininess. If you find the potatoes are too thick, simply stir in a little more warm cream or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with plenty of salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your delicious meal:

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced

Ensure everything is prepped before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your meal:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes per side.

Cook the Chicken

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, add the thyme, and cover. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken cooks, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.

Mash the Potatoes

Add heavy cream, butter, and minced garlic to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot for a delightful experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add herbs or spices to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor. You can also substitute chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut.

Serving Suggestions

This Comfort Food Chicken and Mashed Potatoes dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides. A crisp green salad or sautéed green beans can complement the richness of the meal beautifully. For a bit of indulgence, consider serving the chicken with homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. Just whisk a tablespoon of flour into the drippings and gradually add broth until the desired thickness is achieved.

To elevate the presentation, garnish the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped chives or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that contrasts the hearty flavors of the chicken and potatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning a busy week ahead, this recipe can easily be made in advance. Prepare the chicken and mashed potatoes and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stove in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. For the mashed potatoes, a quick microwave reheat usually does the trick, or you can warm them on the stove with a splash of cream to keep them creamy.

For longer storage, both the chicken and mashed potatoes freeze beautifully. Portion them out in individual servings to make for easy lunch or dinner options. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a healthier twist. Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and potatoes ahead, then reheat them before serving.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complement this comforting meal perfectly.