Chicken Fricassee Recipe

This Chicken Fricassee recipe is the original French comfort food. With tender chicken breasts cooked alongside earthy mushrooms in a velvety sauce, this dish is elevated with a sprinkle of tarragon. It’s an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful balance of flavors that will impress anyone at your table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• Step 1: Season the Chicken
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Cook Vegetables
• Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour
• Step 5: Incorporate Chicken Stock
• Step 6: Finish Cooking Chicken
• Step 7: Prepare Cream Mixture
• Step 8: Combine with Sauce
• Step 9: Finalize Sauce
• Step 10: Taste Test & Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• With Rice
• With Roasted Vegetables
• With Bulgur Pilaf
• With Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• Reheating Chicken Fricassee Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Fricassee?
• How do I make my Chicken Fricassee thicker?
• Can I use other types of meat for this Chicken Fricassee recipe?
• What sides pair well with Chicken Fricassee?
• Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Fricassee?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce creates a taste sensation that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish is simple enough for weeknight meals yet elegant for entertaining guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, roasted vegetables, or bulgur pilaf for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce in advance and just heat it up when you’re ready to serve for less stress during mealtimes.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Fricassee recipe successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows you to cook chicken and sauté vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the egg yolk and sour cream smoothly into the sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

This Chicken Fricassee recipe is the original French comfort food. Chicken breasts cooked with earthy mushrooms in a velvety sauce and sprinkled with tarragon for perfection. Served with rice, roasted vegetables or bulgur pilaf (like I did), it is a perfect meal for any occasion.

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped – about 1 cup)
• 1 lb. Portobello mushrooms (cleaned, trimmed, and sliced)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon blanc)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 cup chicken stock – I used my homemade chicken stock recipe.
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 teaspoons tarragon (minced; if you can’t find tarragon, you can use parsley)

How to Make Chicken Fricassee Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat dry chicken breasts with paper towels and season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Place chicken breasts into the skillet and cook each side for about 4 minutes until golden brown.
* They won’t be fully cooked at this stage.
* Transfer them to a plate, cover with aluminum foil, and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

Add mushrooms, onions, and white wine to the same skillet.
* Cook for about 8–10 minutes while stirring occasionally until mushrooms are browned.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour

Add minced garlic and flour into the skillet.
* Stir well to combine for about one minute.

Step 5: Incorporate Chicken Stock

Pour in chicken stock while scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any brown bits.
* Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Finish Cooking Chicken

Add back the chicken along with all juices from the plate into the skillet.
* Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. This should take about 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Mixture

While chicken cooks, whisk together egg yolk and sour cream in a small bowl.

Step 8: Combine with Sauce

Once cooked, remove chicken from skillet and transfer it to a platter. Cover it with aluminum foil.
* Measure out half a cup of mushroom sauce from the skillet and stir it into your sour cream mixture until well combined.

Step 9: Finalize Sauce

Slowly pour this mixture back into the skillet while stirring constantly.
* Mix in lemon juice, tarragon, and nutmeg. Let simmer for another five minutes.

Step 10: Taste Test & Serve

Taste your sauce for seasoning; add more salt or pepper if needed.
To serve, place one chicken breast on each plate, pour sauce over it, and garnish with additional tarragon if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Fricassee Recipe

Chicken Fricassee is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions for this comforting French recipe.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Simple steamed rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
• Herbed Rice: Add fresh herbs or spices to your rice for an aromatic twist that complements the dish.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until caramelized add a nice texture and sweetness to the meal.
• Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a deliciously savory contrast to the rich fricassee.

With Bulgur Pilaf

• Lemon Bulgur Pilaf: This nutty grain dish infused with lemon brightens up the plate and balances the creamy sauce.
• Mediterranean Bulgur Pilaf: Toss in olives, tomatoes, and herbs for an added layer of flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

With Crusty Bread

• Fresh Baguette: Perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce, a warm baguette makes for an excellent accompaniment.
• Garlic Bread: A flavorful option that adds a delicious crunch while complementing the dish’s richness.

How to Perfect Chicken Fricassee Recipe

To achieve the best Chicken Fricassee, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and vegetables for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Ensure you get a good sear on your chicken; this step adds depth to the overall taste.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Times: Allow the chicken and mushrooms to cook fully; this promotes tenderness and rich flavors.
• Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: When adding eggs to sour cream, whisk them well to avoid curdling when added to hot liquids.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to ensure your dish is perfectly seasoned at serving time.
• Experiment with Herbs: While tarragon is traditional, feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fricassee Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Fricassee can enhance its flavors and create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce beautifully.
2. Creamy Polenta: Soft polenta acts as a comforting base that soaks up all the delicious flavors from the fricassee.
3. Sauteed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer freshness and color while adding a slight crunch.
4. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken dish, refreshing your palate.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with diced veggies provides a healthy and hearty side option.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts wonderfully with savory fricassee flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Fricassee recipe, a few common errors can affect the final dish. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your meal is flavorful and well-prepared.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland meat. Always season generously before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F without overcooking.
• Not deglazing the pan: Failure to scrape up the browned bits after cooking the chicken can result in less flavor in your sauce. Always deglaze with wine or broth.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold sour cream or egg yolk can cause curdling when added to hot sauce. Let them come to room temperature first.
• Rushing the simmering process: Not allowing the sauce to simmer can result in an unbalanced flavor. Let it cook slowly for optimal taste development.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Fricassee in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Fricassee Recipe

• Allow the fricassee to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Fricassee Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Fricassee?

Chicken Fricassee is a classic French dish that features chicken pieces cooked slowly with vegetables and a creamy sauce made from stock and cream.

How do I make my Chicken Fricassee thicker?

To thicken your sauce, you can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with water. Stir this mixture into your sauce while it simmers until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I use other types of meat for this Chicken Fricassee recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you could also try using thighs or even turkey for a different flavor profile.

What sides pair well with Chicken Fricassee?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or bulgur pilaf. These sides help soak up the delicious sauce.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Fricassee?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and cauliflower, using vegetable broth and cream alternatives for a vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Fricassee recipe offers comfort and richness that makes it perfect for any dinner occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!