Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy is a dish that combines comfort and flavor, serving as a perfect meal for any occasion. The golden chicken paired with creamy mashed potatoes and rich garlic gravy creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you wanting more. It delivers a hearty and satisfying experience that will impress your family and guests alike.
Why We Love This Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons; first, the combination of golden, crispy chicken and creamy mashed potatoes is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is sure to please everyone. The garlic gravy adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. Plus, this dish is relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option even for novice cooks. Every bite of this dish feels like a warm hug, embodying the essence of comfort food while being packed with flavor that resonates with everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients, all of which are essential to create the harmony of flavors that you will enjoy.
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How to Make Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy Directions
Starting with the chicken, it’s best to prepare your workstation to keep things organized. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, ensuring every part of the meat is covered to enhance the flavor. Take a skillet and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. You want to sear them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust—this should take about 6-7 minutes on each side. You can tell they are done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to tackle the mashed potatoes. Peel and chop the potatoes into equal-sized chunks. In a large pot, add your chopped potatoes and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil and let the potatoes cook until they are tender—this usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add in the butter, milk, and shredded cheese. Mash everything together until you achieve a creamy consistency, and season to taste with a little salt and pepper.
Now, let’s make the garlic gravy. After you have finished cooking the chicken, use the same skillet to take advantage of the delicious drippings left behind. Lower the heat to medium, and add in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Allow this mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
The assembly of your dish is simple. Serve the golden-brown chicken on a generous bed of cheesy mashed potatoes. Drizzle the rich garlic gravy on top, inviting everyone at the table to dive in.
How to Serve Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
Present your meal with flair by plating it nicely. Start by placing a hearty scoop of cheesy mashed potatoes on each plate, creating a soft nest for the chicken breast. Lay the seared chicken breast atop the mashed potatoes, letting it rest comfortably. Pour the luscious garlic gravy generously over the chicken and mashed potatoes, making sure to cover them in that delicious sauce.
To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing your dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a splash of color. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this meal alongside a vibrant green salad or some steamed vegetables for added texture and nutrition. Don’t forget to have some warm bread on the side—perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy!
Expert Tips: Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
When preparing this dish, there are a few expert tips to keep in mind that will enhance your cooking experience. First, always allow the chicken to reach room temperature before cooking. This ensures a more even cooking process. Furthermore, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature accurately; this ensures juicy, flavorful results.
When making the mashed potatoes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination. Cream cheese or even a smoky cheese can provide distinct flavors that transform the dish. Additionally, for a richer gravy, consider adding a splash of heavy cream once the garlic has sautéed and before simmering.
If you prefer a more complex flavor in your gravy, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce while simmering. Lastly, feel free to adjust seasoning to your taste—cooking should always be a personal experience, often reflecting your flavor preferences.
How to Store Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
To properly store your leftovers, first let the chicken and mashed potatoes cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in airtight containers. The chicken can be stored separately from the mashed potatoes if you prefer making them fresh each time. These leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the chicken and mashed potatoes tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can keep for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them up in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra broth to the gravy if needed to bring it back to life.
Variation of Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
There are numerous ways to add a personal twist to this recipe if you’re feeling adventurous. For a healthier option, consider using skinless chicken breasts and Greek yogurt in place of butter and milk in the mashed potatoes. It reduces calories while still delivering on creaminess.
You can also try adding other spices or herbs to the chicken before searing. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile significantly. For those who love vegetables, you might stir in cooked spinach or broccoli into the mashed potatoes for additional nutrients and flavor.
Finally, consider making a mushroom gravy instead of garlic gravy. Sautéed mushrooms can provide a savory foundation and can be easily prepared using the same method shared for making the garlic gravy. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize your dish.
FAQ
What makes the Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy recipe special?
This recipe merges perfectly cooked chicken with creamy, cheesy potatoes and rich gravy, providing hearty comfort food that appeals to all ages. It’s simple enough for weeknight meals yet elegant for entertaining guests.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas can enhance nutrition and color on your plate, making the meal even more satisfying.
What types of cheese work best for the mashed potatoes?
Cheddar is a popular choice for its sharp flavor, but you can experiment with any cheese you love. Cream cheese can add an extra creaminess while parmesan offers a rich, nutty taste.
How do I keep the chicken moist while cooking?
By checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and not overcooking, you can keep the chicken juicy. Also, letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute properly.
Is it easy to reheat leftovers of this dish?
Yes, simply store leftovers in airtight containers, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven or microwave, with added moisture if needed, to preserve the dish’s flavors.
Golden Seared Chicken with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Gravy
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Boneless and skinless for best results
- Salt Salt to taste For seasoning the chicken
- Pepper Pepper to taste For seasoning the chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking the chicken
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 cups mashed potatoes Prepared, for serving
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your choice
- 4 tbsp butter For creaminess
- 1 cup milk For creamy mashed potatoes
For the Garlic Gravy
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For flavor in the gravy
- 1 cup chicken broth For the gravy base
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear until golden brown, approximately 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through with juices running clear and an internal temperature of 165°F.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into equal chunks.
- Boil chopped potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and return them to the pot, adding in butter, milk, and shredded cheese.
- Mash until creamy and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Make the Garlic Gravy
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and add minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping any bits from the skillet.
- Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.
Assemble the Dish
- Serve the chicken over a generous bed of cheesy mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle the garlic gravy generously over both the chicken and potatoes.
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