Chicken Fricassee (Simplified One-Pan Recipe)
When it comes to comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes can rival a classic Chicken Fricassee. This delightful recipe brings together succulent chicken with a creamy, savory sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Imagine tender pieces of chicken simmered until juicy, together with earthy vegetables soaking up the rich flavors of a homemade sauce—all crafted with ease in just one pan! Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this dish on chilly evenings, filling the house with an aroma that hinted at the comforting meal we were about to enjoy. The beauty of this simplified one-pan version lies in its quick preparation and family-friendly appeal, making it accessible to even the busiest of cooks. If you love recipes like our Creamy Tuscan Chicken or Lemon Herb Chicken, this is your next go-to meal you need to try. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making Chicken Fricassee!
What is Chicken Fricassee?
You might wonder, what exactly is Chicken Fricassee? Is it chicken dancing in a fancy sauce? Not quite! This dish roots itself in traditional French culinary practices, where it’s made by braising pieces of chicken in a luscious white sauce. Its whimsical name has a fun backstory, as the term “fricassee” comes from the French word "fricasser," which means to cut into small pieces and sauté. It’s almost like saying, “Let’s dress up our chicken for a delightful dinner party!” And isn’t it true that "the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach"? Whether you’re impressing family or friends, this Chicken Fricassee will do the trick! Grab your apron and let’s get to cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fricassee
There are numerous reasons to fall head over heels for this delightful Chicken Fricassee. First and foremost, the highlight of the dish is the incredibly rich, creamy sauce that envelops the chicken, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. You can easily save money by making this dish at home compared to eating out or purchasing pre-made meals—talk about a win-win! To elevate your dish, consider incorporating some fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme, which lends a fresh aroma and additional flavor. If you’re a fan of creamy dishes like our favorite Chicken Alfredo, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation. So, why not give this Chicken Fricassee a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Chicken Fricassee
Quick Overview
This Chicken Fricassee truly shines with its simplicity, taste, and creamy texture. In under 45 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s sure to impress! Plus, it’s made all in a single pan—making cleanup a breeze.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Fricassee
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on (or chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Dijon mustard and let it bubble away for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken back into the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through fully.
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Finish with Cream: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until you have a thickened sauce.
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Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your creamy Chicken Fricassee!
What to Serve Chicken Fricassee With
Pair your Chicken Fricassee with hearty sides for a complete meal. Fluffy mashed potatoes or a side of buttery bread are perfect for soaking up that delightful creamy sauce. A fresh garden salad or steamed green beans can provide a crisp texture contrast, rounding out your plate beautifully. For drinks, consider a light white wine or refreshing iced tea for a delightful meal experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken Fricassee
To ensure your Chicken Fricassee comes out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
- Opt for bone-in chicken for better flavor and moisture during cooking.
- If you’re in a rush, you can use chicken thighs or breasts without bones, but be sure to adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Don’t rush the sautéing process of vegetables; allowing them to develop their flavors helps enhance the dish.
- For a bit of extra zest, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Chicken Fricassee fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes well—simply transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to maintain its creamy texture.
Now that you know all there is to know about Chicken Fricassee, why not gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this comforting, delicious meal tonight? You’ll be glad you did!

Chicken Fricassee
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Dijon mustard and let it bubble away for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken back into the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through fully.
- Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until you have a thickened sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your creamy Chicken Fricassee!
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