Ingredients for Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Provides the hearty protein and chicken flavor base for this comforting gravy. Thighs stay juicy, ensuring a tender bite.
• Russet potatoes: The essential foundation for incredibly creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes. Choose large, firm potatoes for the best texture.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base for our rich garlic gravy. Using low-sodium allows precise seasoning control.
• Whole milk: Adds essential creaminess and richness to both the mashed potatoes and the gravy. Warm it gently before adding.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for incredibly cheesy mashed potatoes, adding tangy depth. Freshly shred for superior melt.
• All-purpose flour: Crucial for creating a smooth roux, thickening the gravy to perfect, luscious consistency. Cook thoroughly to avoid a raw flour taste.
• Unsalted butter: The foundation for a rich roux and adds luxurious creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Use unsalted for better salt control.
• Garlic cloves: The star aromatic, infusing the gravy with its signature, irresistible flavor. Use fresh garlic for the most potent taste.
• Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, savory aromatic base, deepening the gravy’s complex flavor profile. Finely dice for even cooking.
• Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden brown, adding extra flavor and a nice crust. A good quality extra virgin is best.
• Kosher salt: An essential seasoning to enhance all flavors in both the chicken and garlic gravy and cheesy mashed potatoes. Season in layers.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a pungent warmth and subtle spice, balancing the richness of the dish. Grind just before using for best flavor.
• Fresh parsley: A vibrant finishing touch, adding fresh herbaceousness and a beautiful pop of color to the final presentation. Chop right before serving.
• Fresh chives: Offers a mild oniony zest and a delicate green garnish, complementing the cheesy mashed potatoes wonderfully. Snip with kitchen shears.

How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Prep & Cook Potatoes:

Begin by boiling the peeled, quartered Russet potatoes in salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. While they cook, pat your boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Sear Chicken:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken, setting aside to rest, retaining flavorful pan drippings for the gravy base.

Build Gravy Base:

Reduce heat to medium, add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter to the skillet. Sauté finely diced yellow onion until softened, then add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in all-purpose flour to form a golden roux.

Simmer Gravy:

Gradually whisk in low-sodium chicken broth and whole milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until your Chicken and Garlic Gravy begins to thicken. Return chicken to the skillet, letting it warm through.

Finish Mashed Potatoes:

Drain the tender potatoes. Return them to the pot and mash thoroughly with the remaining butter, whole milk, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until creamy and smooth. Season the cheesy mashed potatoes to taste with salt and pepper.

Assemble Plates:

Generously spoon the warm, cheesy mashed potatoes onto serving plates. Arrange the flavorful chicken thighs over the mash, then ladle the rich Chicken and Garlic Gravy generously over everything for a truly comforting meal.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish your Ultimate Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with fresh chopped parsley and chives. Serve this delightful American comfort food immediately, creating warm and happy memories around your family’s dinner table.

How to Store Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

To store leftover Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, refrigerate it promptly in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t do what I did and leave it out too long, or it won’t be safe to eat. Discard if you notice any off smells or slimy textures.

You can prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes up to 1-2 days in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Reheat gently and combine with freshly seared chicken for the best experience.

For optimal texture, store the gravy and mashed potatoes separately if possible. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve with Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

To serve this comforting dish, simply spoon generous portions of cheesy mashed potatoes onto plates, top with chicken, and ladle the rich gravy over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley and chives for a special touch. It’s perfect enjoyed hot, perhaps paired with a simple green salad or roasted carrots to balance the richness. A light red wine would also pair beautifully.

I always serve this family-style, with big scoops of mash and chicken, ensuring everyone gets extra gravy! It’s the ultimate comfort on a chilly evening, creating a warm, happy atmosphere we all enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent my Ultimate Chicken and Garlic Gravy from getting lumpy, a mistake I often made?

To prevent lumpy gravy, always whisk in the chicken broth and milk gradually and continuously. My trick is a slow pour and constant whisking to create a smooth, velvety consistency every time, just like grandma’s.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for the Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes?

While you can use chicken breast, I find thighs stay much juicier and more flavorful in this recipe. If using breast, be careful not to overcook it, or it will be dry and tough, which isn’t fun.

→ Can I make the Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes ahead for busy weeknights?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy and mashed potatoes up to 1-2 days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and combine with freshly seared chicken for the best taste.

→ How do I make The Ultimate Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch when making the roux. Whisk well to avoid lumps, ensuring a delicious, safe meal for everyone.

→ How long can I store leftover Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I learned the hard way that leaving it out too long isn’t safe, so always refrigerate promptly after dinner.