Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, but make sure your skillet or pans can handle the extra chicken. I once tried it in a small pan for a big crowd, and dinner was delayed while I played chicken Tetris.

Can I use frozen mashed potatoes?

Absolutely. Thaw them first and add a splash of milk as you reheat. Stir in the cheese, and they will feel homemade.

Do I have to sear the chicken?

No. Searing adds flavor and texture, but if time is tight, you can roast or slow cook the chicken and then make the gravy in the pan or a saucepan.

How do I make gravy thicker or thinner?

To thicken, let it simmer a little longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry. To thin, add milk or a bit of chicken broth a tablespoon at a time until you hit the right pour.

Can kids help with this?

Yes. Kids love stirring the mashed potatoes and sprinkling cheese. For safety with searing, have them handle the plating and garnishing parts. I usually have my five-year-old line up forks and napkins like a tiny maître d.

Easy Golden Seared Chicken Breasts Recipe 2026

Description

A comforting dish featuring golden seared chicken breasts served with creamy mashed potatoes and a luscious garlic gravy.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup milk

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Instructions

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes on each side.
Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.
In the same skillet, add butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring until gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
For the mashed potatoes, mix the mashed potatoes with cheese until melted and creamy. If the potatoes feel too thick, add a little milk and stir until you get the texture you like.
To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on a plate, top with seared chicken, and drizzle with garlic gravy. Garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored separately for better texture. Reheat gravy gently; add milk to mashed potatoes if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and Cooking
Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg