The Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory gravy featuring colorful peppers and mushrooms, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings warmth to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour.
• Flavorful Gravy: The combination of sautéed vegetables and chicken stock creates a gravy that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Side Dish: While creamy mashed potatoes are classic, you can easily substitute them with rice or buttered noodles for variety.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers! The flavors deepen when stored, making it even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your kitchen experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Potato masher
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken while allowing you to make the gravy in the same pan.
• Pot: Needed for boiling potatoes until they reach the ideal tenderness for mashing.
• Potato masher: Ensures your mashed potatoes are smooth and fluffy, enhancing their creaminess.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Gravy

• 4 chicken breasts (about 600g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp flour
• 250ml chicken stock
• 1 tsp dried thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 800g potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 50g butter
• 100ml milk
• Salt & pepper, to taste

How to Make Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Mash with butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
2. Add in the sliced mushrooms, followed by minced garlic. Cook briefly until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle with flour, stirring well to combine everything.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously until thickened.
5. Add in dried thyme, then return seared chicken to the skillet so it can absorb some flavors.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate your creamy mashed potatoes next to a generous serving of chicken topped with flavorful gravy.

Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Serving pan-seared chicken with pepper and mushroom gravy alongside creamy mashed potatoes creates a delightful meal. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Classic Plate Presentation

• Use a large plate to serve the chicken breast topped with gravy, and place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes beside it for a traditional look.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over the dish for a pop of color and added flavor, making your meal visually appealing.

Pair with Seasonal Vegetables

• Serve steamed broccoli or green beans on the side to add freshness and balance the richness of the gravy and potatoes.

Create a Comfort Bowl

• Layer the mashed potatoes at the bottom, top with chicken and gravy, and finish with sautéed vegetables. This makes for a cozy, comforting bowl.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements the dish well, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors.

How to Perfect Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Getting your pan-seared chicken just right can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to perfect this recipe.

• Use high-quality chicken: Selecting fresh, high-quality chicken breasts ensures better flavor and texture in your dish.

• Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding olive oil. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust on the chicken.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.

• Let it rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing keeps it juicy and flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for optimal flavor.

• Experiment with textures: Consider adding crunchy elements like fried onions or nuts on top for an exciting texture contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well with pan-seared chicken.

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Sauté fresh green beans in garlic and olive oil for a tasty side that adds crunch and flavor.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy for an earthy complement.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweeten up steamed carrots with honey or maple syrup for a delightful contrast to savory flavors.

4. Crispy Potato Wedges
   Season potato wedges with herbs and spices, roast them until crispy for an alternative potato option.

5. Cauliflower Mash
   For a lighter twist on mashed potatoes, try cauliflower mash seasoned similarly; it’s creamy yet low-carb.

6. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly charred asparagus spears provide bright flavor while keeping the meal light and refreshing.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Boil or grill corn on the cob; its sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this one.

8. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious option that balances out richer flavors in your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and there are common pitfalls when making Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken and vegetables properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Overcrowding the pan – Searing too many chicken breasts at once can lower the pan temperature, preventing a nice golden crust. Sear in batches if needed for best results.
• Not letting the chicken rest – Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Rushing the gravy – Skipping the simmering time for the gravy can result in a watery sauce. Let it thicken properly for rich flavor and texture.
• Imprecise potato preparation – Using unpeeled potatoes or not cutting them evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Always peel and cube potatoes uniformly for consistent mashing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimum flavor.

Reheating Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes, here are some common questions:

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or lamb for chicken if desired. Adjust cooking times as needed based on meat thickness.

What can I serve with Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes?

Consider pairing this dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, simply let it simmer longer or mix a little cornstarch with water before adding it to the pan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead and store separately. Reheat when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a delightful meal that combines savory flavors with creamy comfort. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or swapping out sides like rice or buttered noodles. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Pan-Seared Chicken with Pepper & Mushroom Gravy and Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the family together for memorable dinners. This recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, bathed in a rich gravy made with sautéed peppers, mushrooms, and savory chicken stock. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings while being simple enough for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. In just under an hour, you can serve up this heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp flour
• 250ml chicken stock
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 800g potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 50g butter
• 100ml milk

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Instructions

1. Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain, then mash with butter and milk; season to taste.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté sliced onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened. Add minced garlic and cook briefly.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, then gradually pour in chicken stock while stirring until thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet to absorb flavors.
5. Serve the chicken topped with gravy alongside creamy mashed potatoes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. Consider substituting mashed potatoes with rice or buttered noodles for a variation.