Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of garlic and rich flavors of chicken fill your kitchen, creating an ambiance of warmth and comfort. That’s what you get with this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes recipe! It blends the rich taste of golden, succulent chicken simmered in a luxurious garlic gravy with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes that are simply to die for. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table.
The beauty of this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes lies in its simplicity and the wholesome ingredients that provide both flavor and nourishment. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family to a delightful dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly! You’ll find that it’s easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors everyone will love. From the juicy chicken to the velvety gravy and irresistible mashed potatoes, each bite is a delightful reminder of homemade comfort food that nourishes both body and soul.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
- Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic gravy combined with succulent chicken offers an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish embodies everything you desire in comfort food, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this meal together efficiently without any culinary expertise.
- Versatile Pairing: The cheesy mashed potatoes complement the gravy perfectly, but you can even swap in your favorite sides for a personalized touch.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe fits beautifully into any dining scenario.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace. Gather all your ingredients and tools, which will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Make sure your cutting board is clean, and you have sharp knives ready for dicing the onion and celery. For cooking, a large skillet is crucial, as it allows you to cook the chicken evenly and later prepare the gravy in the same pan, enhancing the flavors. You will also need a potato masher or a hand mixer to ensure that your mashed potatoes are creamy and fluffy.
As for other tools, have a measuring cup handy for accurate portioning of your ingredients. Finally, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the steps, so you know what to expect as you cook, ensuring that you don’t miss any crucial techniques. Keep an eye on your temperature gauge—especially for the chicken—to ensure it is perfectly cooked!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken cutlets or thinly pounded breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for marinade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 tbsp butter (½ stick)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Poultry Seasoning:
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion granules
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp dried sage
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ¾ tsp salt for boiling
- 1½ cups half and half, warmed
- 1 stick salted butter, softened
- ¾ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder for the potatoes
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken cutlets. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, adding any optional poultry seasoning if desired. This not only enhances the flavor but tenderizes the meat as well. Heat another 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering it to keep warm.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Gravy
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, sauté the diced onion and celery until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Gradually sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring continuously to create a roux. This will help thicken your gravy once the chicken stock is added. Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring regularly until the gravy thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, and stir in the sour cream, seasoning the gravy to taste with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
While the gravy is thickening, it’s time to work on those cheesy mashed potatoes! In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the quartered russet potatoes. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Once softened, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them thoroughly with a potato masher or a hand mixer while incorporating the softened butter and warmed half-and-half. Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Continue mashing until the potatoes are fluffy and creamy.
Variations
- Protein: You can swap chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option, keeping the same cooking times and processes.
- Vegetables: For added nutrition, include some sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli to the gravy as it cooks.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like rosemary or cumin to give the gravy a unique twist based on your preference.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
- Don’t skip on the resting time for the chicken; this allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier.
- The gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving for convenience.
- Add more or less garlic according to your taste. If you love garlic, consider roasting some cloves beforehand for a sweeter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the chicken and garlic gravy over a bed of the cheesy mashed potatoes for a comforting plateful.
- A side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad can add a nice crunch and balance to the meal.
Tips
- For an extra creamy texture in your mashed potatoes, try using a combination of cream cheese and sour cream.
- Feel free to adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less chicken stock based on your preference.
- If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, store the chicken and gravy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, ensuring you stir occasionally for even heating.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more flavorful option! Just adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook through.
Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mashed potatoes and store them in the refrigerator, covering well. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stovetop, adding a splash of half-and-half to refresh their creaminess.
What can I pair with this dish besides mashed potatoes?
In addition to cheesy mashed potatoes, consider serving it with rice, polenta, or even a side of crusty bread for sopping up that delicious gravy.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Conclusion
There you have it! A delicious Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes recipe that will not just warm your belly but also your heart. This dish is ideal for any occasion where comfort food is required, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a celebratory feast. Besides its delightful flavors, it’s packed with nutrients, ensuring a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Feel free to experiment with substitutions and add your personal touch. Most importantly, enjoy the process of cooking and the joy it brings to your loved ones. We would love to hear your thoughts once you try this recipe! Don’t forget to share with friends and family, and come back for more delightful recipes!
Print
Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is a comfort food masterpiece that offers a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken cutlets or thinly pounded breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for marinade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 tbsp butter (½ stick)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Poultry Seasoning:
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion granules
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp dried sage
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ¾ tsp salt for boiling
- 1½ cups half and half, warmed
- 1 stick salted butter, softened
- ¾ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder for the potatoes
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken cutlets. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, adding any optional poultry seasoning if desired. This not only enhances the flavor but tenderizes the meat as well. Heat another 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering it to keep warm.
- Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, sauté the diced onion and celery until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Gradually sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring continuously to create a roux. This will help thicken your gravy once the chicken stock is added. Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring regularly until the gravy thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, and stir in the sour cream, seasoning the gravy to taste with salt and pepper.
- While the gravy is thickening, it’s time to work on those cheesy mashed potatoes! In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the quartered russet potatoes. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Once softened, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them thoroughly with a potato masher or a hand mixer while incorporating the softened butter and warmed half-and-half. Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Continue mashing until the potatoes are fluffy and creamy.
Notes
Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness. Don’t skip on the resting time for the chicken; this allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier. The gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving for convenience. Add more or less garlic according to your taste. If you love garlic, consider roasting some cloves beforehand for a sweeter flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 45 g