Chicken FricasseeFricassee de Poulet
A truly classic French chicken fricassee is so appetising and quite easy to make at home for a family meal or entertaining. The meat is first seared and then slowly braised in liquid. Although it has cream in it, you can leave it out if you prefer. I like to enjoy it with the cream then cut down in other areas to be healthy. It is all about portions, just do not over indulge and you will be fine!
• One 3lb chicken cut into portions ( about 6 - 8) • 2 tablespoons butter, • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons flour • 1 cup dry white wine • 3 cups chicken broth • 8 ozs button mushrooms • 16 small white onions • Bouquet garni • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 tsp lemon juice • 1 tsp sugar • 4 tablespoons heavy cream • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley to garnish
• Heat the oil and butter in a flameproof casseroled dish. • Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides. (This is to sear them) • Sprinkle with the flour, coating them all over. • Cook over a low heat for a few minutes. • Pour in the wine and bring to the boil. • Slowly add the chicken broth. • Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to simmering point. • Add the bouquet garni and season to taste. • Simmer for about 45 minutes until chicken is tender juices run clear. • In a separate pan, heat the remaining butter and cook the mushrooms with the lemon juice until they are golden brown. • Put the mushrooms in a warm bowl and set aside. • Add the onions, water and sugar, to the pan mix well and simmer until tender. • Pour the onions into the bowl with the mushrooms. • When the chicken is cooked, transfer to a warm serving dish and keep to one side. • Add any vegetable juices from the pan (too nice to throw away- gives a good flavour!) to the casserole dish and bring to the boil stirring frequently. • When the sauce is reduced, whisk the cream in and cook for about 2 minutes. • Finally, add the mushrooms and onions and cook for a further 2 minutes. • Taste it at this stage and season to your liking. • Pour the sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve!
A fantastic meal that is sure to please everyone. I do hope you like it as much as we do!
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