When I first made this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, I wanted something warm, filling, and comforting after a long workday in my bakery. As I tested the recipe, I realized how the aroma of garlic rising from the pan instantly shifted my mood. Moreover, the moment the chicken began to sear and turn golden, I knew this dish would become one of those recipes I reach for whenever I need a cozy meal. Because the mashed potatoes melt into the rich gravy, the entire plate feels like the kind of food that brings people together. Even though it is simple, it still tastes like something I would serve on a special weekend. Additionally, every time I prepare it, the familiar routine of mashing potatoes and whisking gravy reminds me why I love cooking.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You’ll love this recipe because it offers bold flavor with surprisingly little effort. Furthermore, the combination of creamy potatoes, savory chicken, and smooth garlic gravy creates a perfect balance. Since everything cooks in a few easy steps, it works well for busy evenings. Also, the final dish looks impressive even though it stays beginner-friendly. Because the gravy absorbs the browned bits from the skillet, each bite becomes even richer. Although the ingredients are simple, the result still tastes restaurant-quality.
VERSATILE
This recipe is versatile because you can switch between chicken breasts or thighs without changing the cooking steps. Additionally, you can adjust the creaminess of the mashed potatoes by adding more milk or more cheese. Since the gravy thickens quickly, you can make it as light or as rich as you want. Moreover, this meal works for weeknights, family dinners, or even small gatherings.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
This dish stays budget-friendly because it relies on basic pantry staples. As potatoes and chicken remain affordable in most households, the cost stays low even when feeding several people. Furthermore, you don’t need any fancy equipment or specialty ingredients. Since everything cooks in one skillet plus one pot, cleanup stays easy, which saves both time and energy.
INGREDIENTS FOR THE RECIPE
-
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
6 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
1 ½ cups chicken broth
-
¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
-
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
-
½ cup milk
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
HOW TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
When I prepare this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, I always begin by organizing everything on my counter. Because this recipe moves smoothly once the cooking starts, having ingredients ready helps me stay relaxed. Additionally, starting with the chicken ensures that the flavors build naturally in the same skillet. Since the potatoes cook separately, both parts finish around the same time. Moreover, the steps flow in a way that keeps the process simple, even for beginners.STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING
First, I season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Because seasoning the meat at the start creates better flavor, it helps the chicken sear beautifully. Then I heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. As soon as the oil shimmers, I place the chicken into the pan. Since the goal is a golden crust, I avoid moving the pieces too much. Instead, I let them cook undisturbed until the edges turn brown. Moreover, once the first side is golden, I flip the chicken and let it cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After it finishes, I set it aside and keep it warm.Next, I lower the heat to medium. Because the skillet now contains browned bits from the chicken, it already holds deep flavor. I add butter to the pan and let it melt. Then I stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about a minute. Since garlic burns easily, watching it closely helps maintain the aroma without turning it bitter. Additionally, the smell that rises at this stage always feels comforting.
After that, I add the flour to create a roux. Because this mixture thickens the gravy later, I cook it while stirring continuously for one to two minutes. Although the roux may look dry at first, it becomes smooth as it heats. Then I gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking. Since adding it slowly prevents lumps, the gravy becomes silky. Moreover, the browned bits from the skillet dissolve into the broth, making the sauce richer. As the mixture simmers, it thickens naturally. If I choose to add the optional heavy cream, I stir it in now to make the gravy even smoother. Finally, I season with salt and pepper to taste.
While the gravy simmers, I start the mashed potatoes. First, I place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a pot of salted water. Because salting the water adds flavor from the inside, the finished potatoes taste better. Then I bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 12 to 15 minutes. Since the pieces should feel tender when pierced with a fork, I check them before draining.
Once drained, I place the potatoes back into the pot. Then I add butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Because the potatoes are still hot, the cheese melts easily. I mash everything together until creamy. Additionally, I adjust the salt and pepper based on taste. Although some people prefer ultra-smooth potatoes, others enjoy a slightly rustic texture. Since the recipe allows both, I choose based on the mood of the day.
Now everything comes together. I slice the cooked chicken to make serving easier. Then I spoon a generous portion of cheesy mashed potatoes onto each plate. After that, I arrange the chicken slices over the potatoes. Finally, I pour the garlic gravy on top. Because the gravy coats both the chicken and the potatoes, each bite feels warm and satisfying. Moreover, a sprinkle of parsley or chives brightens the final dish.
QUICK AND EASY
This recipe is quick and easy because the steps rely on familiar techniques. Additionally, the timing naturally overlaps, which saves effort. Since the gravy and chicken use the same skillet, cleanup stays simple. Moreover, potatoes boil quietly in the background while the chicken cooks.CUSTOMIZABLE
The recipe is customizable because you can add more cheese, more garlic, or even herbs to the mashed potatoes. Additionally, the gravy thickness adjusts easily by adding a splash of broth. Since chicken thighs stay juicy, they work well as an alternative to chicken breasts. Moreover, you can serve the dish with vegetables if you prefer a fuller meal.CROWD-PLEASING
This dish is crowd-pleasing because it combines creamy, savory, and rich flavors that most people enjoy. Furthermore, the mashed potatoes balance the garlic gravy beautifully. Since the chicken stays tender, it appeals to both kids and adults. Moreover, the warm aroma makes the meal feel inviting for any gathering.FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs easily, and they remain juicy during cooking. Additionally, the cooking steps stay the same, which keeps the process simple.Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes earlier in the day. Moreover, you can warm them gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Since they reheat well, they suit meal prep too.Can I skip the heavy cream in the gravy?
Yes, you can skip it without affecting the recipe. Because the roux already thickens the gravy, the sauce still turns rich. Additionally, the broth creates enough smoothness on its own.Can I add more cheese to the mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can increase the cheese for a richer texture. Since cheddar melts quickly, it blends well. Moreover, you can mix in other cheeses if you prefer stronger flavor.Can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
Yes, you can adjust the consistency easily. Adding a bit more broth makes it thinner. Adding a few extra minutes of simmering makes it thicker. Furthermore, whisking helps maintain smoothness.Can I double the recipe for guests?
Yes, doubling works well. Additionally, the steps remain the same, which makes it convenient for large gatherings.
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
This dish features golden seared chicken served over creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and finished with a rich garlic gravy. It offers warm, comforting flavors that suit both weeknight dinners and special weekend meals.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale-
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
6 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
1 ½ cups chicken broth
-
¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
-
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
-
½ cup milk
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
-
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden on both sides. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then set aside.
-
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Stir in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring continuously.
-
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, breaking up any lumps. Simmer until thickened. Stir in optional heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain well.
-
Mash potatoes with butter, milk, and cheddar cheese until creamy. Adjust salt and pepper.
-
Slice cooked chicken. Plate mashed potatoes, top with chicken, and pour garlic gravy over. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Notes
You can use chicken breasts or thighs. The gravy thickness adjusts with more broth or extended simmering. The mashed potatoes can be made ahead and reheated with extra milk if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes