Nothing beats a comforting, hearty meal like this Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe. It perfectly combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy, buttery Yukon gold mashed potatoes, all tied together with a savory pan sauce that lifts every bite. This dish is the kind of home-cooked goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate, yet it’s straightforward enough to become a weeknight favorite or a cozy weekend treat. When you make these bowls, you’re crafting more than just a meal—you’re creating a delightful experience that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the rich butter that makes the potatoes silky smooth to the poultry seasoning that adds an aromatic depth to the chicken, every element counts.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking and juicy results.
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes: Their natural buttery flavor yields creamy mashed potatoes without extra fuss.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Provides a subtle, fragrant punch that complements both chicken and potatoes.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness without overpowering the dish.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Essential for that luscious creamy texture in the mashed potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken to a golden brown.
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning: A flavorful blend that enhances the chicken with warm, earthy notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The final touch to bring out all the natural flavors beautifully.
How to Make Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping your Yukon gold potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Give them a quick rinse under cold water to wash away excess starch. Then, boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, which typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is key for that silky, creamy mashed potato texture we all crave.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes are boiling, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken until each side turns a beautiful golden brown and the meat is cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and builds a lovely flavor foundation for your dish.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are ready, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add butter and half a cup of chicken broth to the hot potatoes, then mash until smooth and creamy. This little addition of broth keeps the potatoes from getting dry while the butter brings that irresistible richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste to perfect the flavor.
Step 4: Create the Pan Sauce
Don’t wash that skillet yet! Pour some more chicken broth into the same pan used for the chicken to deglaze it. Scrape up those browned bits stuck to the bottom—they hold incredible flavor. Let the broth simmer and reduce slightly until it thickens, turning into a luscious sauce that will elevate your Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now, for the fun part—assembling! Scoop generous portions of creamy mashed potatoes into serving bowls. Slice the cooked chicken and place it neatly over the potatoes. Drizzle the pan sauce on top for that savory finish. Feel free to add your favorite steamed vegetables or fresh herbs as a colorful, fresh garnish to brighten the dish.
How to Serve Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme make wonderful garnishes that not only add a pop of color but also a fresh herbal aroma. You can also sprinkle a little paprika or cracked black pepper for an extra visual appeal and subtle spice.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple mixed green salad. These lighter sides provide a crisp contrast to the creamy and hearty bowls, ensuring your meal feels balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic touch, serve your Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe in deep ceramic bowls or handmade pottery. You might even layer the mashed potatoes and chicken in clear glass bowls to show off the textures. Another fun idea is to top with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Keep the chicken and potatoes together or separate them for more flexible reheating options.
Freezing
This Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, making sure to cool everything to room temperature first. They can last up to two months frozen without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or a small pat of butter to the mashed potatoes while warming to revive their creamy texture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes yield creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, russet potatoes work well too for a fluffier texture. Just expect a slightly different mouthfeel but still delicious results.
Is poultry seasoning necessary, or can I substitute it?
Poultry seasoning adds a unique blend of herbs that complement the chicken perfectly, but you can substitute it with a mix of dried thyme, sage, rosemary, and marjoram if you prefer or don’t have it on hand.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Certainly! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier, though cooking times may vary slightly. Just ensure they are cooked through for safety and best taste.
How do I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use warm chicken broth when mashing and add an additional tablespoon of butter or even a splash of cream. Freshly mashed while hot ensures smooth results.
What can I add to the pan sauce to enhance flavor?
You can stir in a splash of white wine, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme to deepen the sauce’s flavor profile and complement the chicken beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm embrace, give this Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe a try. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying dish that brings together simple ingredients with a big impact on taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bowls are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Chicken Mashed Potato Bowls 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 hearty Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl features tender sautéed chicken breasts served atop creamy garlic mashed Yukon gold potatoes, complemented by a flavorful pan sauce made from chicken broth deglazed in the skillet. Perfect for a comforting and balanced meal, this recipe combines simple ingredients with straightforward steps to deliver a satisfying dinner for four.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (divided)
Mash
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- Steamed vegetables or fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the Yukon gold potatoes into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then place in a pot of salted water and boil until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Sauté the Chicken: While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, minced garlic, and half a cup of the chicken broth. Mash together until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, pour in the remaining half cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits and simmer the liquid until it slightly thickens, creating a flavorful pan sauce.
- Assemble the Bowls: Scoop the creamy mashed potatoes into serving bowls. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top. Drizzle with the pan sauce and garnish with steamed vegetables or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, simmer the mashed potatoes with minced garlic in the butter before mashing.
- Chicken breasts can be pounded to even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness in the dish.
- Steamed green beans, peas, or roasted carrots make excellent vegetable garnishes.
- Leftover mashed potatoes and chicken can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
