As the first hints of evening warmth fill the air, I find myself reminiscing about cozy family dinners spent gathered around the table, plates piled high with comfort food. One dish that always made an appearance was Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes—a true crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines rich flavors and heartwarming nostalgia. The golden seared chicken, glistening under a blanket of savory garlic gravy, pairs perfectly with velvety mashed potatoes laced with melted cheese.
This meal not only satisfies hunger but brings a sense of togetherness, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—minimal prep time for maximum flavor—which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends. Allow me to guide you through making this delicious comfort dish that will surely elevate your culinary repertoire and create new cherished memories.
Why is Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Perfect?
Comforting and nostalgic, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Effortlessly easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. The creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes add a delightful twist that pairs flawlessly with the savory garlic gravy. Enjoy a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages while still being suitable for gluten-free diets—just modify the flour! Perfectly satisfying, this meal fosters connection and leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Chicken and Garlic Gravy Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components that come together to create this comforting dish!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Choose thighs for juiciness and flavor, or breasts for a leaner option.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the taste of the chicken.
For the Garlic Gravy
- Garlic, minced (6 cloves) – Fresh garlic provides a robust flavor that’s essential for the gravy.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – Enhances richness and helps sauté the garlic to perfection.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons) – Thickens the gravy; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed for a gluten-free version.
- Chicken Broth (1 ½ cups) – The main liquid for the gravy, adding depth and savory notes.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup, optional) – Adds a luxurious creaminess to the gravy; can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch.
For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
- Yukon Gold Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cubed) – Create a creamy base that forms the heart of the mashed potatoes.
- Milk (½ cup) – Adds creaminess to the mash; warming it beforehand fosters better blending.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Offers flavor and richness; feel free to swap in mozzarella or gouda for variety.
Finishing Touches
- Fresh Parsley or Chives (1 tablespoon, chopped) – A fresh garnish to add color and a hint of brightness to your dish.
- Salt and Pepper – Adjust these seasonings to taste for a satisfying finish.
How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
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Sear Chicken: Start by seasoning the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
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Prepare Gravy: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Thicken Gravy: Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow it to simmer until slightly thickened. If desired, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
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Boil Potatoes: Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 pounds of peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and boil until fork-tender (about 12-15 minutes). Drain well.
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Mash Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes with ½ cup of warm milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash until creamy and smooth, ensuring the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
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Assemble Dish: For serving, place a generous scoop of the cheesy mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with slices of the seared chicken and ladle the hot garlic gravy over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
Optional: Drizzle an extra splash of gravy over the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes?
Complete your meal with delightful pairings that bring out the comfort in every bite.
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Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens brightens the palate, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Slightly charred seasonal veggies, like carrots and zucchini, add a touch of earthiness to balance the dish’s heaviness.
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Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings a delightful burst of flavor, making each bite a happy one.
Pairing this dish with roasted vegetables not only enhances the flavors but also provides essential nutrients and colors, making your plate more inviting.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy, creating pure comfort in every morsel.
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Red Wine: A smooth red wine, such as Merlot, complements the savory elements of the gravy beautifully.
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Lemon Sorbet: End on a light note with a tangy sorbet, cleansing the palate while keeping dessert refreshing.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Garlic Gravy
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Sear for Flavor: Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned and seared until golden brown; this creates a flavor-packed crust that enhances the entire dish.
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Avoid Garlic Bitterness: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; allow it to become fragrant but not brown, as this can lead to bitterness in your gravy.
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Mix Lumps Away: When whisking in the chicken broth for the gravy, do it gradually to avoid lumps. A smooth gravy is crucial for the perfect Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes.
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Warm Your Milk: For creamier mashed potatoes, try warming the milk before adding it to the potatoes. This helps them blend better and enhances the creaminess.
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Storage Savvy: If you’re saving leftovers, keep the chicken, gravy, and potatoes in separate containers to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Storage Tips for Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
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Room Temperature: Allow the dish components to cool to room temperature before storage to avoid condensation and sogginess in your meals.
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Fridge: Store leftover chicken, gravy, and cheesy mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze each component separately in freezer-safe containers or bags, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy your delicious Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain moisture.
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and adapt it to suit your taste!
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy preparation, skipping straight to the gravy and mashed potatoes.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend in the gravy to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses in the mashed potatoes; try gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Mix: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach into the mashed potatoes for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Creamy Twist: For a richer gravy, mix in cream cheese with the heavy cream, resulting in a velvety texture that’s absolutely indulgent.
- Herb Infusion: Stir fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the gravy for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy or serve with hot sauce on the side for some extra flavor.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the gravy for a umami-packed twist, enhancing the savory profile of the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and garlic gravy up to 3 days in advance, ensuring a smooth weeknight dinner experience. Simply boil and mash the Yukon Gold potatoes, then mix in the cheese and warm milk as usual. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. For the gravy, make it as directed but omit adding the cream until you’re ready to serve to maintain its velvety texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting dish, simply reheat the potatoes and gravy (adding a splash of broth if needed) and sear your chicken right before serving for a delightful, fresh taste—just as delicious as if made that day!
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
Which chicken should I use?
You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner for a lighter option. If you want a quicker prep time, consider using rotisserie chicken instead!
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the dish components to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent sogginess. Store chicken, gravy, and cheesy mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This method helps maintain optimal texture.
Can I freeze Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, package each component separately in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Adding a splash of broth or milk will help retain moisture.
What if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Gradually add the liquid while stirring over low heat to ensure it blends smoothly.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour in the gravy with a gluten-free blend. Also, be cautious with cheeses and creams based on any dietary restrictions. This dish can easily be adapted for lactose-free options by using lactose-free milk and cheese.
How can I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, warm your milk before mixing it in with the potatoes. You can also add in some cream cheese or adjust the cheese type for richer flavors. Mixing in warm ingredients helps achieve that velvety texture we all love!
Savory Chicken and Garlic Gravy atop Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and simmer until slightly thickened. Add heavy cream if desired and season with salt and pepper.
- Boil salted water and add peeled Yukon Gold potatoes; cook until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Combine potatoes with warm milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- To serve, place cheesy mashed potatoes on plates, top with seared chicken, and ladle hot garlic gravy over. Garnish with parsley or chives.