Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth, preferably homemade or low sodium
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess in gravy)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for topping
Substitution tip: If you prefer, swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier twist in the gravy. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk works beautifully in the mashed potatoes.
Instructions
- Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return to the pot.
- Add butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Keep warm while you prepare the chicken and gravy.
- Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle flour over the pan drippings and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream if using, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash more broth or milk.
- To assemble, spoon a generous helping of mashed potatoes into your bowl. Top with sliced chicken, then ladle warm gravy over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions over each bowl. Add optional sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy flavors—just like Mama Lou’s kitchen on a chilly day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
