Few meals evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia quite like tender shredded chicken paired with creamy mashed potatoes and rich, velvety gravy. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or a cozy evening at home. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers hearty, homemade goodness in every bite.
In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare this Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe, offering tips to perfect the dish, variations for customization, and serving suggestions to make your meal truly shine.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavors
This dish relies on pantry staples like potatoes, chicken broth, flour, and butter. These ingredients, when combined, create layers of flavor that feel luxurious and satisfying.
2. One-Skillet Efficiency
Cooking the chicken and gravy in the same skillet ensures maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The fond (those browned bits left after searing the chicken) adds depth to the gravy, making it irresistibly savory.
3. Comfort Food at Its Best
Creamy mashed potatoes and tender shredded chicken are the ultimate comfort food pairing. Add the rich gravy, and you have a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable.
Ingredients: The Stars of the Dish
Chicken
- Chicken Breasts (2 large): These are lean and cook quickly. For added richness, substitute with thighs.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the chicken, olive oil creates a golden crust that locks in flavor.
Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes (4 large, peeled and cubed): Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Enhances the richness and flavor of the potatoes.
Gravy
- Chicken Broth (2 cups, divided): A flavorful base for simmering the chicken and creating the gravy.
- Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the gravy to a silky consistency.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear and Simmer the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Simmer: Add 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Set aside while you prepare the gravy.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- Whisk the Flour: In the same skillet, whisk the flour into the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with shredded chicken and drizzle with gravy.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
For creamy mashed potatoes, opt for high-starch varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. They mash easily and absorb butter and milk beautifully.
2. Avoid Overmixing
When mashing potatoes, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can cause them to become gummy.
3. Don’t Skip the Searing
Searing the chicken creates a flavorful crust and locks in moisture. It also adds depth to the gravy when you deglaze the skillet.
4. Customize the Gravy
Enhance the gravy by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of garlic powder, or a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Variations to Try
1. Herb-Infused Potatoes
Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or chives to the mashed potatoes for an herbal twist.
2. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Infuse the milk with minced garlic before mixing it into the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Spicy Chicken
Season the chicken with paprika, cayenne, or chili powder for a spicy kick.
4. Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Mix crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream into the mashed potatoes for a loaded version.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages:
1. Vegetables
Serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the meal.
2. Bread
A slice of crusty baguette or a warm dinner roll is perfect for soaking up any extra gravy.
3. Drinks
Pair with a glass of iced tea, sparkling water, or a light white wine like Chardonnay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe. Simply skip the searing step and proceed with the gravy.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Prepare the mashed potatoes and chicken separately, then reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the chicken and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
This meal is balanced and satisfying, making it a great option for a hearty dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe is a true comfort food classic, combining tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy into a dish that’s both simple and indulgent. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe is a winner. Customize it to your liking, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy every comforting bite.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and savor the deliciousness of this comforting dish. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Ingredients
– 2 large chicken breasts
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups chicken broth (non-alcoholic)
– 2 tbsp flour
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear on both sides until golden. Add 1 cup chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks.
2. In the same skillet, whisk flour into the remaining broth to create a smooth gravy. Simmer until thickened.
3. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
4. Serve shredded chicken over mashed potatoes, drizzled with gravy.