If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, perfectly seared chicken thighs bathed in a rich, garlicky gravy paired with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes create an irresistible combination that’s sure to please everyone at your table. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles, fills stomachs, and leaves you planning your next time making it again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential, each bringing its own magic to the dish—from the richness of the chicken and garlic gravy to the velvety smoothness of the cheesy mashed potatoes. You probably already have most of these staples on hand, which makes whipping up this recipe even easier!
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1.5 lbs): Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For searing the chicken to a golden perfection without sticking.
- Garlic cloves, minced (4): Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the gravy.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Key for thickening your savory garlic gravy into a luscious sauce.
- Chicken broth (1 1/2 cups): The flavorful base that keeps the gravy rich and comforting.
- Heavy cream or milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and rounds out the gravy’s texture beautifully.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Gives subtle depth without overpowering the garlic.
- Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Brings an earthy herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Chopped parsley (1 tbsp): The fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and brightness.
- Russet or Yukon gold potatoes (2 lbs, peeled and cubed): The perfect base for your creamy mashed potatoes.
- Butter (4 tbsp): Adds richness and silkiness to the potatoes.
- Milk (1/2 cup, warmed): Helps create a smooth, creamy potato mash.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the potatoes, delivering irresistible cheesy goodness.
How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Start by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures your potatoes are soft enough to mash into a creamy texture. Once drained, return them to the pot and add butter along with warmed milk to make mashing effortless and smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still hot so it melts perfectly and seasons with salt and pepper. Cover your mash to keep it warm as you move on to the star of the dish: the chicken with garlic gravy.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Generously season your chicken with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme for a balanced flavor profile. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear each piece of chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until it turns beautifully golden and is cooked through. Removing the chicken allows you to focus on crafting that dreamy garlic gravy without overcooking the meat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Gravy
Lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Give it about 30 seconds to release its tantalizing aroma without burning. Next, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux, the thickening base for your gravy. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream or milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens into a luscious sauce. Finally, nestle your chicken back into the skillet; coat each piece with the garlicky goodness and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to stack those flavors.
Step 4: Serve It Up
Lay down a generous bed of your cheesy mashed potatoes on each plate, then top with chicken smothered in that irresistible garlic gravy. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh and inviting finish.
How to Serve Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic, vibrant finishing touch that adds a subtle burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the dish. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad make fantastic companions. Their lightness and crunch contrast beautifully with the creamy potatoes and hearty chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner presentation, serve the chicken and gravy in a shallow bowl with the mashed potatoes neatly spooned alongside. Alternatively, create individual portions by layering the cheesy mash at the bottom of a ramekin, topping with chicken and gravy, then broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden finish. This makes for an impressive yet cozy meal perfect for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe leftovers store wonderfully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the gravy separate if possible to maintain the best potato texture, or combine them if you prefer one-pot convenience.
Freezing
This dish freezes well when kept properly sealed. For best results freeze chicken and gravy on its own, and potatoes separately to preserve the creamy texture when reheated later. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and consume within two months for optimal flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the gravy and chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Reheat mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back their luscious creaminess. Stir occasionally and heat until everything is piping hot and ready to enjoy again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving during cooking, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner choice. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the garlic gravy?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter gravy. The sauce will be less rich but still delicious and creamy.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them when ready. The chicken and gravy can also be cooked a few hours ahead and gently reheated just before serving.
How do I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Use warmed milk and plenty of butter, mash while the potatoes are still hot, and consider using a potato ricer or masher to ensure a silky-smooth texture. Adding cream cheese or sour cream is another tasty option.
Are there any flavor variations for the gravy?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a splash of white wine to the gravy to deepen the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage also complement the garlic and thyme beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s one of those soul-satisfying meals that shows love through every bite—comfort food at its finest. Give it a try, invite someone special to share it with, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting recipe features tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich garlic gravy, served over creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty and satisfying American main course perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the chicken and gravy:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the cheesy mashed potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the mashed potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for about 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add butter and warmed milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm.
- Prepare the chicken and seasonings: Season the chicken thighs or breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme. This step ensures a flavorful base for the gravy and meat.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make the garlic gravy: Reduce the heat to medium, then add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to create a roux that will thicken the gravy.
- Add liquids and thicken: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or milk) until smooth. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a gravy consistency.
- Combine chicken and gravy: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the garlic gravy. Let it simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken reheats.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy mashed potatoes first, then top with the chicken and garlic gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the gravy.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the gravy to enhance flavor and add extra depth.
