If you crave the ultimate comfort meal, look no further than Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. This dish wraps you in a creamy, garlicky embrace, serving perfectly seared chicken smothered in rich gravy over fluffy, cheese-loaded mash. Each comforting bite delivers soul-warming flavors, mingling savory depth with the nostalgic goodness of potatoes and cheddar. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or wowing guests, Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes will have everyone chasing the very last trace of gravy on their plates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are gloriously straightforward, but each one packs an essential role. Fresh garlic, creamy dairy, and quality chicken create unforgettable flavor layers, while potatoes promise the ultimate cheesy, pillowy base.
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Juicy, tender chicken is the hearty centerpiece; thighs are extra flavorful, but breasts work wonderfully too.
- Olive Oil: Helps create a beautifully golden sear on the chicken while keeping things moist.
- Salt and Pepper: Your most important flavor boosters; always season to taste for best results.
- Butter: Adds richness to both the gravy and the mashed potatoes — don’t skimp!
- Garlic (6 cloves): Fresh garlic is the soul of the gravy, infusing every bite with savory depth.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates a smooth roux, thickening the gravy to luxurious, spoon-coating consistency.
- Chicken Broth: The base of your gravy; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
- Whole Milk or Cream: For a dreamy, creamy texture in both the gravy and the mash. Cream yields an extra-indulgent result.
- Dried Thyme: Just a dash adds fresh, herby notes that brighten the rich sauce.
- Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity throughout.
- Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes (2 pounds): The ultimate mashers: starchy russets make it fluffy, Yukons make it buttery.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Bold cheddar melts right in, turning ordinary potatoes into cheesy comfort food heaven.
How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Let’s start by giving the potatoes a head start. Peel and cube your russet or Yukon gold potatoes, toss them in a big pot, and cover with cold water. Boil for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re so tender a fork slides right in. Drain the potatoes, return them to the pot, and mash with butter and milk (or cream) until dreamily smooth. Now for the moment of magic: stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into gooey perfection. Taste and season generously with salt and pepper. Cover the pot to keep your mash warm while you focus on the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While your potatoes are working their magic, go ahead and season your chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Nestle in your chicken pieces and let them sear untouched for 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for gorgeous golden color on each side and a juicy, cooked-through center — no dry chicken here! Once done, set those beauties aside and try not to snitch a bite just yet.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Gravy
In the same skillet (no need to clean it — those crispy chicken bits are flavor gold), melt your butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for one blissful minute until fragrant. Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to coat the garlic and form a roux. Give it 1 to 2 minutes — this cooks off any raw flour taste. Now, slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth and lump-free. Add dried thyme and black pepper, stirring as the gravy bubbles gently for 5 to 7 minutes, thickening up and turning silky.
Step 4: Marry the Chicken and Gravy
Return your cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the bubbling garlic gravy. Spoon plenty of that luscious sauce over each piece, then let everything simmer on low for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final step lets the chicken soak up the garlicky, herby richness of the gravy — a flavor payoff like no other!
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Mound those warm, cheesy mashed potatoes onto plates, then crown them with chicken smothered in garlicky gravy. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you wish. This, right here, is Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes in all its glory — classic comfort food upgraded to absolute star status.
How to Serve Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
A final touch of freshness always takes this dish to the next level. Sprinkle chopped parsley, fresh chives, or even a little extra sharp cheddar on top for color and bright flavor contrast. You could even add thinly sliced green onions for a delicate bite and vibrant finish.
Side Dishes
Since Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is beautifully hearty, keep side dishes light and crisp for balance. A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette, roasted green beans, or garlicky steamed broccoli work wonders. Crusty bread is never a bad idea for extra gravy-mopping opportunities!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special Sunday supper, serve this dish family-style in a big, inviting platter, letting everyone scoop generous helpings. Or for a more refined touch, plate it in individual bowls with a swirl of gravy and a sprinkle of microgreens. You could even make a rustic casserole, layering mashed potatoes on the bottom and spooning chicken and gravy all over the top before garnishing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Both the chicken and cheesy mashed potatoes will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the gravy separately if possible, so the potatoes don’t soak up too much sauce.
Freezing
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes actually freezes surprisingly well. For best results, cool everything thoroughly, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. For the creamiest texture, freeze the chicken and gravy together, and the mash separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes back to piping hot perfection, gently reheat the chicken and gravy in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Warm the potatoes in the microwave or on the stove, adding an extra splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Stir well, pile it all together, and enjoy that just-cooked comfort all over again!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch?
Absolutely! Shred rotisserie chicken and warm it in the finished garlic gravy for a fantastic shortcut. You’ll still get all the flavor and comfort — and dinner on the table even faster.
What’s the secret to ultra-smooth mashed potatoes?
For the fluffiest, silkiest mash, use a potato ricer or food mill for zero lumps. Make sure your butter and milk are warmed before mixing in so everything blends smoothly into creamy perfection.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, easily! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend when making the gravy. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-friendly, so everyone can dig in worry-free.
What other cheeses work in the mashed potatoes?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment. Try Gruyère for nuttiness, Monterey Jack for buttery meltiness, or even a handful of creamy goat cheese for tang. Each will add its own delicious twist to Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes.
How can I lighten up this dish?
For a lighter version, use skinless chicken breasts, swap cream for low-fat milk, and use half the cheese in the mash. The dish will still be flavorful, just a bit gentler on the waistline.
Final Thoughts
There’s something unmistakably special about sharing Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with the people you love. This recipe delivers comfort and joy in every bite, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a slow Sunday supper. Grab your fork, gather your crew, and let this dish warm both your table and your heart!
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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of tender chicken in a rich garlic gravy served over creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. This dish is a perfect balance of savory and satisfying, sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Gravy:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream (more as needed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender, drain, mash with butter, milk/cream, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken, sear in olive oil until cooked through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Gravy: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, add flour, then whisk in chicken broth and milk. Simmer with thyme and pepper until thickened. Return chicken to skillet and simmer.
- Serve: Spoon garlic gravy over chicken and serve over cheesy mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For extra depth, add a splash of white wine or Dijon mustard to the gravy.
- Use a potato ricer for ultra-smooth mash.
- Garnish with parsley or chives before serving.
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