Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the potatoes. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water by about an inch, and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Step 2: While potatoes cook, prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 tablespoon of the dried Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate to rest.
- Step 3: Create the garlic herb sauce in the same skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt. Add the minced garlic and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Finish the mashed potatoes. Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the hot pot. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the milk or heavy cream. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Step 5: Slice the chicken and serve. Slice the rested chicken breasts into thick pieces. Arrange the creamy mashed potatoes on plates, top with the sliced garlic herb chicken, and spoon the fragrant butter-garlic sauce from the skillet over the chicken. Serve warm.
Notes
- Leftovers store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making quick and delicious meals effortless.
- To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and microwave the mashed potatoes with a tiny bit of milk or cream for a fresh, creamy texture.
- Elevate this comfort meal with a vibrant green side; a simple steamed vegetable like asparagus or green beans, or a crisp garden salad, adds lovely contrast and freshness.
- For exceptionally juicy chicken, make sure to let the breasts rest for at least 5-10 minutes after searing and before slicing, as this allows the flavorful juices to redistribute beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with 1.5 cups mashed potatoes
- Calories: 820
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 5g