Chicken Fricassee with Shallots
Introduction
Chicken fricassee with shallots and bacon is a classic French dish that beautifully combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious balance of flavors that highlight the richness of the chicken and the smokiness of the bacon. With the addition of shallots for sweetness, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken (about 4-5 pounds, cut into parts)
Bacon (4-5 slices, chopped)
Shallots (2-3, sliced)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Chicken broth (2 cups)
Heavy cream (1 cup)
Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
Olive oil (for cooking)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Prep Time
The prep time for this chicken fricassee is approximately 15-20 minutes. During this time, you’ll chop the ingredients, season the chicken, and prepare everything for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the chicken fricassee is around 40-50 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and develop rich flavors in the sauce. In total, you can expect the dish to take about an hour from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, making it a great option for a gathering or leftovers for the week ahead.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Brown the Chicken
In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down, working in batches if necessary. Sear them until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Shallots
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the shallots and cook them until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavorful bits.
Add Garlic and Flour
Add minced garlic to the shallots and sauté for an additional minute. Then, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes.
Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and scrape any remaining bits stuck to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Add Chicken Stock
After the wine has reduced, add the chicken stock, stirring to combine. Bring it back to a simmer.
Return Chicken to the Skillet
Return the browned chicken and cooked bacon to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Simmer the Fricassee
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Finish with Cream
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the cream and let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Chicken Options
You may use a mix of chicken thighs and breasts for varied flavor and texture.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fricassee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with this dish.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking chicken in the sauce allows the flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Searing
Searing the chicken pieces first creates a golden-brown crust, enhancing the overall flavor of the fricassee.
Deglazing
Deglazing the pan with broth helps to lift the browned bits from the bottom, incorporating them into the sauce for added depth.
Simmering
Simmering ensures the chicken is cooked through gently, which helps maintain its moisture and tenderness.
FAQ
What is fricassee?
Fricassee is a cooking method involving browning meat, then cooking it slowly in a sauce, typically made from stock and other flavorings.
Can I use other meats for fricassee?
Yes, while chicken is common, other meats like rabbit or beef can also be used for fricassee.
What can I serve with chicken fricassee?
Chicken fricassee pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze chicken fricassee?
Yes, chicken fricassee can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
The chicken fricassee with shallots and bacon is not just a delightful dish, but also a representation of comforting French cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, sweet shallots, and savory bacon creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile that is sure to impress. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, embodying warmth and indulgence with every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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A traditional French dish that features chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bacon, bringing a robust flavor akin to fricassee.
Chicken Cacciatore
This Italian-inspired recipe includes chicken simmered with tomatoes, bell peppers, and herbs, offering a hearty and rustic alternative.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet
A quick and creamy skillet dish loaded with mushrooms and herbs that pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta.
Honey Garlic Chicken
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Chicken and Dumplings
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Chicken Piccata
This zesty dish features lightly breaded chicken breasts sautéed and served with a lemon-caper sauce, adding a fresh and tangy flavor contrast.
