If you’re craving a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream gravy paired with velvety mashed potatoes loaded with sharp cheddar cheese make for a dinner that’s both indulgent and downright irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that turns any weeknight into a special occasion, all while being surprisingly simple to pull together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building the rich flavors and inviting textures that make this dish shine. From the tender chicken to the cheesy potatoes, every component works in harmony to create that perfect comfort food experience.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, seared to a golden brown and juicy inside.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic seasoning that enhances every flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For that perfect sear and a touch of fruity richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds creamy depth to both the gravy and potatoes.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the gravy with vibrant aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The secret to thickening that smooth, creamy gravy.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Brings savory body and moisture to the gravy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, silky texture in the gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory warmth to the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brilliant for a fresh, green garnish.
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: The perfect creamy canvas for cheesy mashed potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Infuses the potatoes with luscious richness.
- 1/2 cup milk (or more as needed): Helps achieve that perfectly smooth and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the potatoes, adding bold, tangy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting flavors.
How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper—don’t be shy here because this is where the savory foundation is built. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear each breast for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous, golden crust and are cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest; this little pause keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Gravy
In the same skillet, melt the butter to soak up all those lovely browned bits left behind. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until it becomes fragrant but not burnt—this step releases that deep, mouthwatering flavor. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking continuously for a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking gently to avoid lumps. Stir in heavy cream, dried thyme, and onion powder, letting the gravy simmer and thicken for about 3 to 5 minutes. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic gravy over the top, then simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to let all the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
While the gravy bubbles away, boil the Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, mashing everything together until smooth and creamy. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still warm so that it melts perfectly throughout. Season with salt and pepper to your taste—this cheesy mash is the ideal, indulgent counterpart to the garlicky chicken.
How to Serve Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a touch of brightness, cutting through the richness of the gravy and cheese. You can also add a light dusting of paprika for an extra pop of warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the chicken gravy in a shallow bowl with a generous scoop of cheesy mashed potatoes nestled in the center, topped with the chicken breast and gravy pooling around. Alternatively, plate the mashed potatoes first, then lay the chicken on top before drizzling the garlicky gravy—all perfect for that diner-style comfort feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken with garlic gravy and cheesy mashed potatoes keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let everything cool slightly before storing to keep textures intact.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken and gravy separately from the mashed potatoes for best results. Store them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 2 months. Note that potatoes may lose some creaminess after freezing but will reheat nicely with a splash of milk.
Reheating
For reheating, warm the chicken and garlic gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little milk or butter added to refresh their creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay moist even longer, making them an excellent alternative if you prefer darker meat in this recipe.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine, use coconut or almond milk instead of regular milk, and swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free without losing creaminess.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
If the gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, simply whisk in a little more flour mixed with cold water to create a slurry, and simmer until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe for a large group?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use a larger skillet or pan. You may want to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even searing.
What variety of potatoes works best for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold are perfect here thanks to their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor, but Russets also work well if that’s what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your cooking arsenal. It delivers unbeatable comfort with every bite and proves that simple ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and a little patience can lead to a truly memorable meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the cozy, savory joy it brings to your table.
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Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting recipe features juicy, seared boneless chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy garlic gravy, served alongside smooth and cheesy mashed Yukon Gold potatoes. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner, the garlic-infused gravy adds depth and warmth, while the cheddar cheese in the mashed potatoes provides a flavorful, creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Garlic Gravy:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or more as needed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear each chicken breast for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Gravy: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Simmer the gravy for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Gravy: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the thickened gravy. Spoon the gravy over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to meld flavors together.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and return potatoes to the pot.
- Mash and Add Cheese: Add 4 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting milk quantity as needed. Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy mashed potatoes and top with the chicken breasts smothered in garlic gravy. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Add a splash of white wine to the gravy for extra depth of flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut to cut down cooking time.
- Mashed potatoes can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
