Mashed Potatoes With Creamy Chicken Gravy

Name: Mashed Potatoes With Creamy Chicken Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I absolutely love making Mashed Potatoes with Creamy Chicken Gravy on cozy evenings. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes paired with the rich, flavorful gravy creates a perfect comfort food that warms the heart. The best part is that it’s simple to make, and my family can’t get enough of it. Whether it’s a regular weeknight or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints. I often get creative by adding garlic or herbs to the mash for a little extra flavor!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-03-29T06:32:26.279Z

Each time I make these Mashed Potatoes with Creamy Chicken Gravy, I am reminded of the first time I prepared them for friends who visited during the holidays. Seeing their satisfied faces as they indulged in the creamy goodness made all the effort worthwhile. I learned that using Yukon Gold potatoes gives a delightful creaminess and a slight sweetness that complements the savory gravy beautifully.

One tip I discovered was to use a mix of butter and cream for the mash—this balances richness while keeping the texture light. For the gravy, I recommend using fresh herbs and seasoning generously; it elevates the flavor and makes the dish feel even more special. Trust me, it’s a meal that brings everyone together!

Understanding Your Ingredients

Using Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe is key to achieving that creamy and buttery texture. Their natural starch content allows the potatoes to become fluffy while still holding moisture, which is crucial for rich mashed potatoes. If you can't find Yukon Gold, Russet potatoes can be an alternative, just be aware that they may result in a slightly drier mash if overcooked. Aim for a tender texture where each bite melts in your mouth.

The quality of your butter and cream will significantly influence the flavor profile of the mashed potatoes. I recommend using unsalted butter to better control the salt levels in the dish. As for the cream, a high-fat heavy cream allows for a silkier texture. If you're looking for lighter options, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that this may alter the rich creaminess of the final dish.

Perfecting Your Gravy

For the creamy chicken gravy, the technique of creating a roux with flour and butter is essential for thickening your gravy to the right consistency. Cook the flour for just a minute to remove its raw taste but ensure it doesn't turn brown—you want a light roux for a creamy color. When adding your chicken broth, whisk vigorously to prevent lumps; this will give you a smooth and velvety gravy, enhancing the overall dish.

Fresh thyme adds a lovely herby note to the gravy, but it can easily be substituted with dried herbs if fresh isn't available. Generally, use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. If you want a richer flavor, consider swapping half of the chicken broth for white wine or adding a tablespoon of soy sauce for depth. Just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly, as it can enhance saltiness.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Chicken Gravy:

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring it to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, and gradually pour in the heavy cream while mashing until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.

Prepare the Gravy

In a separate saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour on top and whisk for about a minute. Gradually add chicken broth while continuing to whisk until smooth. Add the shredded chicken, milk, salt, and pepper. If desired, add fresh thyme for extra flavor. Allow it to simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the creamy chicken gravy over the fluffy mashed potatoes. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes. Fresh herbs in the gravy can provide a delightful twist as well.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the mashed potatoes and gravy separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the potatoes over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if they seem dry. For the gravy, you can reheat it on the stovetop while whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. Microwave reheating is also an option, but do it in short intervals to avoid overheating.

For a longer shelf life, you can freeze both the mashed potatoes and gravy. Make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers. Mashed potatoes can last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding more liquid as necessary for a creamy texture.

Creative Variations

You can give your mashed potatoes a flavor twist by mixing in roasted garlic or sautéed onions to enhance the richness. Adding cream cheese or sour cream can elevate the flavor profile and provide a tanginess that balances the buttery potatoes. If you're feeling adventurous, try folding in some finely chopped chives or parsley for a hit of freshness and color.

As for the gravy, experiment with different proteins beyond shredded chicken—leftover turkey, sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option, or even beef! You could also incorporate vegetables quickly sautéed with the roux, like bell peppers or mushrooms, creating a heartier gravy that complements the mashed potatoes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, feel free to use Russet or red potatoes, although Yukon Gold provides the best creamy texture.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour in the gravy with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

→ Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy and reheat it on the stove before serving, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen it up.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

These mashed potatoes with gravy are great alongside roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or any protein of your choice.