Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chives, for garnish

Highlighted under: Soulful Dishes

I absolutely love this dish because it brings together two comforting classics: fluffy mashed potatoes and savory garlic butter chicken. The richness of the butter and the tenderness of the chicken paired with creamy potatoes create a warm and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it time and again!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:13:34.782Z

When I first experimented with garlic butter chicken, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The garlic creates a beautiful aroma that fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. I learned that allowing the chicken to marinate briefly in the garlic and butter before cooking enhances the flavor immensely. It’s simple tips like this that elevate the meal.

Combining this dish with creamy mashed potatoes was an epiphany for me. I achieved the perfect texture by using a potato ricer, which gave it an incredibly smooth finish. Believe me, the combination of the buttery sauce and fluffy potatoes is a match made in heaven!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A rich, buttery sauce that enhances the chicken's flavors
Creamy, homemade mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth
An easy dish that impresses at any family gathering

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Chicken

The marinating process for the garlic butter chicken is crucial as it enhances the flavor significantly. Allow the chicken to soak in the garlic and butter mixture for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, consider marinating it for up to an hour. This gives the flavors a chance to penetrate the meat more thoroughly, yielding a juicier and more flavorful dish. For a slight twist, try swapping out thyme for rosemary or oregano to give the chicken a different aromatic profile.

When cooking the chicken, prevent overcooking by keeping an eye on the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Golden brown edges not only enhance the flavor but also improve the presentation. If you notice the chicken cooking too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning the butter and garlic. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Crafting Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For irresistibly creamy mashed potatoes, the choice of potatoes matters. I recommend using Yukon Golds for their rich flavor and buttery texture. As you boil the potatoes, make sure to keep them in uniform-sized chunks to ensure even cooking, which usually takes about 15 minutes. When draining, allow them to steam dry in the pot for an extra minute before mashing to remove excess moisture—that's a key to the fluffiness!

Achieving the perfect consistency involves the right mixing technique. Use a potato masher for a more rustic texture or a ricer for super-smooth potatoes. Gradually incorporate your butter and milk mixture while mashing; this allows for better incorporation. If the potatoes seem stiff, add a bit more milk until you reach your desired creaminess. Don't overload them with salt initially; taste and adjust after mashing for the perfect seasoning.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken

4 chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chives, for garnish

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting to simplify the cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, melt butter and mix in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Add the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them well. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.

Serve

Plate the mashed potatoes, top with the garlic butter chicken, and sprinkle chives on top for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious meal with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes or top the dish with crispy fried onions.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover garlic butter chicken and mashed potatoes can be stored together or separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist, warming it for about 5-7 minutes. For the mashed potatoes, microwave in short intervals, stirring in a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or reheat gently on the stovetop.

If you plan to make the dish ahead of time, the chicken can be marinated and stored in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking. The mashed potatoes can also be made the day before; simply reheat them on the stovetop while adding a little extra butter to enhance the flavor before serving. Ensure they are stirred well to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, serve the garlic butter chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes, allowing the buttery sauce to soak into the potatoes. For a balanced meal, consider adding roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus on the side. Their fresh crunch complements the rich flavors in the dish perfectly, providing a colorful contrast on the plate.

Don't hesitate to sprinkle additional herbs such as parsley or thyme over the assembled dish before serving—the freshness adds a beautiful touch and enhances the aroma. You can also include a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving for a burst of acidity, which beautifully balances the richness of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How can I make the mashed potatoes more flavorful?

Consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the mashed potatoes for added richness.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ What's the best type of potato for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for a creamy texture, but Russets are also a great choice.