Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting and soul-satisfying meal, this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy chicken crowned with a luscious garlic-infused gravy, paired alongside rich, creamy mashed Yukon Gold potatoes loaded with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect combination of savory flavors and indulgent textures that come together effortlessly for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe truly shines in delivering classic comfort food with a delicious twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe couldn’t be simpler. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that golden color that makes the dish irresistible.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless cuts for quick cooking and easy serving with tender, juicy meat.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves provide a fragrant, bold taste that elevates the gravy into something truly special.
• Chicken Broth: This adds depth and a savory foundation to the garlic gravy, making it rich and satisfying.
• Butter: Adds richness and is crucial for creating the roux to thicken your gravy perfectly.
• Flour: Helps thicken the gravy to that silky, pourable consistency you want.
• Heavy Cream: Optional, but when added, it lends a velvety smoothness and extra depth to the gravy.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their natural buttery flavor and creamy texture make them ideal for mashing.
• Milk: Used to make the mashed potatoes luxuriously smooth and creamy.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the potatoes for a glorious cheesy kick that’s hard to resist.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in your chicken, gravy, and potatoes.
• Fresh Parsley or Chives: Adds a pop of green color and fresh brightness as a garnish.

How to Make Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil, then sear the chicken until it’s beautifully golden brown on both sides and cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep those juices locked in and the meat warm.

Step 2: Start the Gravy Base

Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt a generous knob of butter. Add minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure not to let it brown—this keeps the garlic’s flavor sweet and mellow instead of bitter.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the garlic butter mixture and stir constantly to form a smooth paste. This step is key to thickening your gravy, so cook the roux for 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste while keeping it silky.

Step 4: Build the Gravy

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, working diligently to avoid any lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer until it thickens just right. If you’re adding heavy cream, stir it in now for a touch of luxurious creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then keep the gravy warm while you prepare the mashed potatoes.

Step 5: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and cut your Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform cubes and boil them in salted water until fork-tender—this usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes. Once soft, drain the potatoes thoroughly but keep them warm.

Step 6: Mash and Cheese It Up

Return the potatoes to the pot or a large bowl, then mash them together with butter, warm milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheddar melts right in, adding an indulgent cheesiness that turns your mashed potatoes into something extraordinary. Season with salt and pepper until your taste buds are satisfied with that perfect creamy, cheesy balance.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Plate a generous scoop of the cheesy mashed potatoes, slice the chicken breasts and nestle them beside or atop the potatoes. Ladle the warm garlic gravy over everything, allowing it to cascade beautifully. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for that inviting pop of color and fresh flavor. Now you’re ready to dive into pure comfort!

How to Serve Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance this dish’s look and taste by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving. These bright green garnishes add a fresh, herby note and a vibrant contrast against the creamy potatoes and golden gravy.

Side Dishes

While this recipe stands proudly on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots introduces texture and balance. Lightly steamed greens with a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the plate and cut through the dish’s rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely twist at dinner parties, scoop the mashed potatoes into individual ramekins and top with the sliced chicken and a drizzle of garlic gravy. You can also use a ring mold to create elegant towers on the plate, garnished with microgreens. This transforms a cozy meal into a more dramatic presentation with zero extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken, gravy, and cheesy mashed potatoes in airtight containers. Refrigerate them promptly and enjoy within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. The gravy thickens in the fridge but will loosen back up when reheated.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if separated into components. Store the chicken and gravy together in one container, and mashed potatoes in another. Properly sealed, they can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and gravy gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Warm mashed potatoes are best reheated in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir well before serving to bring everything back to its luscious best.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and tend to be even juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is heavy cream necessary for the gravy?

No, you can skip the heavy cream if you prefer a lighter gravy. It’s optional but adds a lovely velvety texture that makes the gravy feel extra indulgent.

What kind of cheese works best in the mashed potatoes?

Cheddar is the classic choice for that sharp, melty flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack if you want a different cheesy twist.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter and milk with non-dairy alternatives like vegan butter and almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese to keep the mashed potatoes cheesy without any dairy.

How can I make the garlic flavor more pronounced?

Using fresh garlic cloves is key, but you can also add a little roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow depth. Just add the roasted garlic after the roux is made to blend into the gravy smoothly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing the Chicken and Garlic Gravy with Cheesy Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and gathers everyone around the table with smiles. Give it a try—you’ll quickly discover why this combination becomes a beloved favorite in your meal rotation, perfect for cozy nights and special occasions alike.

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