Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Alright, get ready for a taste bud hug! This Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is one of those dishes that instantly makes your kitchen smell like comfort and love. Picture juicy, tender chicken swimming in a silky garlic gravy that’s just begging to be soaked up by creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. The garlic hits you first with that warm, aromatic punch, and then the cheese melts in, delivering the kind of richness that makes you want to dive right in and never stop eating. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be your go-to for cozy dinners when you want something homemade but totally satisfying.

Quick Facts

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

How I Make It

Step 1:

First, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F), then remove from the pan and set aside to rest.

Step 2:

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Stir constantly and cook until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1–2 minutes — don’t let it burn, or the gravy will be bitter!

Step 3:

Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter and whisk until smooth, creating a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens up, about 3–5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

Step 4:

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the garlic gravy over the top. Let it simmer together for a couple of minutes to soak in all those flavors.

Step 5:

While the chicken is finishing up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 6:

Drain the potatoes well, then mash them with butter and warmed milk until smooth and creamy. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still hot so it melts perfectly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations & Tips

Substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
Use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, but fresh always tastes better!
Mix in cream cheese or sour cream with the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
For a dairy-free option, swap milk and butter with coconut milk and olive oil.
Top the gravy with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
If the gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a splash more chicken broth until you get the perfect consistency.

How I Like to Serve It

This dish shines on a chilly night when you just want to curl up with hearty comfort food. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to brighten the plate and balance the richness.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken and gravy gently on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

Closing: This bowl of golden chicken and garlicky gravy with melty cheesy potatoes always feels like a little homemade celebration on a plate—and that’s why I keep making it over and over.