Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes

Name: Comfort Food Chicken And Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped; 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Chicken and Mashed Potatoes recipe because it's the epitome of home-cooked happiness. Whenever I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen and instantly brings back comforting memories of family dinners. The tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes, creating a meal that warms both my heart and my stomach. This dish is not only simple to make, but it also delivers big on flavor, making it a go-to for weeknight meals or cozy gatherings with loved ones.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:07:16.761Z

When experimenting with chicken and mashed potatoes, I learned that marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight leads to remarkably tender meat. This tip transformed my meals, elevating a simple dinner to something exceptional. I also discovered that using a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes gives my mashed potatoes a beautiful texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

My family always requests this dish, especially during the colder months when we crave something warm and hearty. The combination of savory, seasoned chicken with buttery, smooth mashed potatoes is nothing short of blissful and a true representation of comfort food. I find myself making this dish time and again, knowing it will bring smiles to the table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth
Creamy mashed potatoes that complement juicy chicken
Perfect for a family dinner or special occasions

      

Understanding Tender Chicken

Marinating chicken in buttermilk is a key technique for this recipe, as the acidity in the buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor. By letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes—or even better, overnight—you allow time for the spices to soak in. This process not only enhances taste but also ensures a juicy texture when cooked. After marinating, the chicken will have a beautiful golden color when cooked, which indicates it's properly browned and has developed a robust flavor profile.

When cooking the chicken, maintain a medium heat on your skillet. This allows for even cooking without burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully safe to eat. Visual cues, such as clear juices running from the chicken and a lightly crispy exterior, signal that your chicken is perfectly cooked. If the chicken breasts are thick, consider using a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Using a combination of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes gives your mashed potatoes a delightful texture. Yukon Golds provide a creamy base, while Russets offer lightness and fluffiness. For the most effective results, cut the potatoes into uniform chunks so they cook evenly—typically, 1-inch pieces boil perfectly in 15-20 minutes. Drain them thoroughly to remove excess water before mashing, which helps prevent a watery end product.

When adding milk and butter, try to use warm milk to keep the potatoes hot during the mashing process. This allows for a smoother consistency without cooling them down. A potato masher works well for a rustic texture, but for ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, consider using a ricer. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to gluey mashed potatoes, which is a common misstep. A touch of nutmeg or roasted garlic can elevate this dish further, adding another layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot. Add milk and butter, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve Together

Plate the chicken alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle any pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the chicken marinade or the potatoes while mashing.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover chicken and mashed potatoes, don't fret! Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, which keeps it moist. For mashed potatoes, warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or a bit more butter to restore their creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the components. Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, though I recommend freezing it without the marinade for best texture. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, but note they may need a good whip and a splash of liquid when reheating to bring them back to life. Label your containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When serving, I love to pair the chicken and mashed potatoes with steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad to add a pop of color and nutrition. You could also consider a rich gravy drizzled over the chicken for added moisture and flavor. For a twist, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary into your mashed potatoes, or toss in some shredded cheese for a cheesy variation.

If you want to make this dish lighter, you can swap the butter for Greek yogurt in the mashed potatoes, which also adds a nice tang. Additionally, grilling or baking the chicken instead of pan-searing can impart different flavors and textures. Experimenting with spices in the marinade—like cumin or cayenne—can also introduce new taste profiles that keep this comforting dish fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, thighs or drumsticks work great; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the chicken in the oven for crispiness, and microwave the mashed potatoes until warm.

→ Can I make the mashed potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! Just store them in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of milk.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Green beans or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes to balance the meal.