If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together creamy potatoes and tender chicken in one satisfying dish, the Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe perfectly balances the rich, buttery mashed potatoes with juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts, all enhanced by a flavorful sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the fluffy Yukon gold potatoes that make creamy mash so delightful, to the seasoning that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. These ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieving the comforting taste and satisfying texture that makes this dish a favorite.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs): Choose evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking and tender results.
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes (about 2 lbs): Their creamy texture makes these perfect for rich mashed potatoes.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the potatoes and chicken.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Used for cooking and deglazing, it enhances savory flavor without overpowering saltiness.
- 4 tbsp butter: Essential for smoothing out the mashed potatoes and adding richness.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps get a beautiful golden crust on the chicken and adds a fruity note.
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning: A blend of herbs that perfectly seasons the chicken for warmth and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but critical for bringing every flavor together.
How to Make Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon gold potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then place them in a pot of salted water. Boil until tender enough for a fork to slide through easily, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is the foundation for those perfectly smooth mashed potatoes that are the star of the bowl.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the potatoes are cooking, heat extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place them carefully in the hot oil and cook each side for about 6 to 7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. This will give you a juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfying crust, complementing the creamy mash perfectly.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Add butter and half a cup of chicken broth, then mash them until they reach a creamy consistency. The broth adds moisture and a subtle savory note, while the butter brings that rich, velvety texture to your mashed potatoes. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste to balance out the flavors.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, pour in the remaining chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape all those brown bits off the bottom — that’s where the deepest flavors live. Let the broth simmer until it thickens slightly, creating a simple yet luscious sauce that you will drizzle over your chicken and mashed potatoes, lifting the entire bowl to the next level.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the fun part! Scoop a generous amount of creamy mashed potatoes into each bowl, top with sliced chicken breasts, and ladle over the savory sauce. This layering creates a beautiful presentation and ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness, from the comforting mash through to the tender, juicy chicken.
How to Serve Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe is a simple way to add fresh color and a burst of flavor. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of green and a mild oniony kick. You could also add a few steamed vegetables or a drizzle of extra sauce to brighten the plate and make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a light salad or roasted vegetables makes for a balanced meal. Crisp green beans, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even roasted carrots complement the rich potatoes and chicken wonderfully without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe to the next level by serving it in rustic bowls for cozy comfort or elegant white dishes for a dinner party touch. Layer the chicken slices atop the mashed potatoes in a fan shape for a restaurant-style look, and drizzle the sauce artistically around the edges. You can even top it with crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and mashed potatoes can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to preserve its texture. When ready to enjoy again, the bowls can be reheated easily with a gentle touch to maintain moisture and flavor balance.
Freezing
You can freeze components of the Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe, but mashed potatoes don’t always freeze perfectly due to their creamy nature. If you do freeze them, use freezer-safe containers and consume within two months for best taste. Chicken freezes well when wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and mashed potatoes slowly either in a microwave at medium power or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to bring back moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken juicy and mashed potatoes smooth. Warm the sauce separately and pour it over the bowl just before serving to retain that fresh-from-the-stovetop flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their buttery texture, you can use russets or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, so adjust mashing and seasoning as needed.
Is poultry seasoning necessary or can I substitute it?
Poultry seasoning adds a classic blend of herbs that pairs wonderfully with chicken. If you don’t have it on hand, feel free to use a mix of thyme, sage, rosemary, and a pinch of nutmeg for a similar effect.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or olive oil, and use a dairy-free milk or broth to mash the potatoes. The dish will still be comforting and flavorful.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overcook the chicken; cook it over medium heat, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked inside.
What are some good vegetable sides to serve with Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe?
Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach are fantastic choices that add color, nutrition, and balance the hearty bowl without overwhelming the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade meal that feels like a warm embrace, and the Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe delivers exactly that. It’s simple to make, uses ingredients you likely already have, and offers layers of flavor and comfort in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find it becomes your new favorite go-to for cozy dinners that warm the soul and delight the palate.
Print
Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl featuring tender sautéed chicken breasts served over creamy garlic mashed Yukon gold potatoes, topped with a savory pan sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines simple ingredients for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Steamed vegetables or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes: Peel the Yukon gold potatoes and chop them into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes into a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: While potatoes are boiling, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté each side of the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, minced garlic, and half a cup of the chicken broth. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the pan sauce: Using the same skillet from the chicken, add the remaining half cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits and simmer until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Assemble the bowls: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes into bowls, top with sliced chicken breasts, and drizzle with the pan sauce. Garnish with steamed vegetables or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture.
- Adjust poultry seasoning and salt to your preference.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of cream or milk to the mashed potatoes.
- Steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli make great side additions.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
