Chicken Fricassee Recipe – A Cozy & Creamy Classic
Chicken Fricassee is the ultimate comfort dish—a creamy, rustic stew featuring tender chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables all simmered in a rich, velvety sauce. This Golden Chicken recipe is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even as part of Best Christmas Recipes for a festive meal.
With its French origins, Chicken Fricassee is a dish that feels both elegant and homey, making it ideal for special occasions like a Wedding Chicken dish or even a luxurious Sunday dinner. Let’s bring this classic skillet recipe to life with simple, wholesome ingredients and step-by-step instructions!
Recipe Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 Servings |
Ingredients for My Chicken Fricassee Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Pro Tips for Success
- Sear the chicken first – Browning the chicken creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet – A cast-iron or stainless steel pan ensures even cooking and helps develop flavor.
- Thicken gradually – Sprinkle in the flour slowly while stirring to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Simmer gently – Low heat helps the chicken remain tender while allowing flavors to blend beautifully.
- Rest before serving – Letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
Tools Required
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in chicken thighs | Boneless thighs | Extra rich and juicy taste |
| Half-and-half | Heavy cream | Lighter, less rich sauce |
| Mushrooms | Peas | Earthy, umami depth |
| Rosemary | Thyme | Piney, bold aroma |
| Cornstarch (1 tbsp) | Flour (2 tbsp) | Gluten-free thickener |
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Chicken Fricassee
1. Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Sear them for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the onions and garlic.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth, slightly thickened sauce.
4. Simmer with Vegetables
- Add the carrots, thyme, and seared chicken thighs back into the skillet.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add the Cream and Peas
- Stir in the heavy cream and peas, then simmer uncovered for 5–7 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy warm with buttered bread, mashed potatoes, or rice!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fricassee
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. |
| Buttered Egg Noodles | A classic French pairing for stews. |
| Crusty French Bread | Great for dipping into the creamy sauce. |
| Steamed Rice | A simple, comforting base. |
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (avoid freezing if using heavy cream; add it fresh after reheating).
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- Protein-rich – Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein for muscle repair.
- Nutrient-dense vegetables – Carrots and peas offer vitamins A and C, plus fiber.
- Healthy fats – Olive oil and heavy cream contribute to a rich, satisfying dish.
- Low-carb option – Can be served with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Suggested Drink That Pairs with the Dish
Pair this Chicken Fricassee with a Chardonnay – its buttery texture and citrus notes complement the creamy sauce beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling herbal lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy
This Chicken Fricassee Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive gathering, a romantic dinner, or a weeknight treat, this dish will impress with its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Light some candles, set the table, and enjoy this Golden Chicken masterpiece! 🍽️✨
Bon appétit!
