Chicken

Chicken Fricassee

Name: Chicken Fricassee
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds (680g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup (60g) grated cheddar cheese

By Halle Quill · June 19, 2026 · Chicken

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. Chicken Fricassee is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful mushrooms, it's a perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I remember the first time I made Chicken Fricassee, I was a bit intimidated by the recipe. But as I started cooking, I realized that it's actually quite simple. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices.

One of the things I love about Chicken Fricassee is that it's a very versatile dish. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. And if you're feeling fancy, you can even add some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.

As a low-carb keto cook, I'm always looking for ways to make traditional dishes more keto-friendly. In this recipe, I've used a combination of butter, cream, and cheese to create a rich and creamy sauce that's perfect for a keto diet. And by using chicken thighs instead of breasts, we can keep the dish moist and flavorful.

So if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, look no further than Chicken Fricassee. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful mushrooms, it's a dish that's sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
The sauce is rich and creamy, making it perfect for a keto diet
The chicken and mushrooms are tender and flavorful
The recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides
The dish is perfect for a crowd, as it makes a large quantity of food
The recipe is easy to customize, so you can add your own favorite flavors and spices

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Chicken Fricassee is to use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices. By using a combination of butter, cream, and cheese, we can create a rich and creamy sauce that's perfect for a keto diet.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are much more moist and flavorful than breasts, and they hold up perfectly to the long cooking time required for this dish.

The cooking technique used in this recipe is also important. By browning the chicken and mushrooms in butter, we can create a rich and flavorful crust that adds depth and complexity to the dish. And by simmering the sauce for a long time, we can reduce it and concentrate the flavors, creating a rich and creamy sauce that's perfect for serving over the chicken and mushrooms.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Chicken Fricassee, the ingredients are just as important as the cooking technique. You'll need a few basic ingredients, including chicken thighs, mushrooms, butter, cream, and cheese. You'll also need some spices and seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and thyme.

One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is the chicken. You'll want to use high-quality chicken thighs that are fresh and have a good texture. You can either use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken thighs with the bone in. Both will work well in this recipe.

1 1/2 pounds (680g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinlessYou can either use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken thighs with the bone in. Both will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butterButter is an essential ingredient in this recipe, as it adds flavor and richness to the dish. You can also use other types of fat, such as ghee or coconut oil, if you prefer.
1 medium onion, choppedThe onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. You can use either a white or yellow onion, depending on your preference.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many recipes, and it adds a depth of flavor to the dish. You can use either fresh or dried garlic, depending on your preference.
8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, slicedMushrooms are a key ingredient in this recipe, as they add texture and flavor to the dish. You can use either button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, depending on your preference.
1 cup (250ml) chicken brothChicken broth is used to add moisture and flavor to the dish. You can use either low-sodium or regular chicken broth, depending on your preference.
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy creamHeavy cream is used to add richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can also use half-and-half or whole milk, depending on your preference.
1 teaspoon dried thymeThyme is a fundamental herb in many recipes, and it adds a savory flavor to the dish. You can use either fresh or dried thyme, depending on your preference.
1/2 teaspoon saltSalt is used to enhance the flavor of the dish. You can use either kosher salt or sea salt, depending on your preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper is used to add a spicy flavor to the dish. You can use either freshly ground or pre-ground black pepper, depending on your preference.
1/2 cup (60g) grated cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese is used to add flavor and richness to the sauce. You can use either sharp or mild cheddar cheese, depending on your preference.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken Fricassee

1
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
2
Heat the butter in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it's translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they're tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to deglaze the bottom. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook until it's reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
6
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it's reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
7
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top of each thigh. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
8
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the breast. If it's not at 165 F (74 C), continue to cook the chicken in 5-minute increments until it reaches the correct temperature.
9
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the sauce and cook until it's melted and smooth.
10
Serve the chicken thighs with the creamy sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, if desired.
11
Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay moist and tender.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken thighs. Cook them in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
Don't stir the sauce too much, as this can cause it to break and become too thick. Instead, let it simmer gently and stir it occasionally to prevent burning.
If using mushrooms, make sure to clean them thoroughly before slicing. This will help to remove any dirt or debris and ensure they cook evenly.
Don't overcook the chicken thighs. They should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), but they should still be moist and tender.
Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay moist and tender.
Consider serving the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts. This will add some extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
If you want to make the dish more substantial, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice. This will add some extra carbohydrates and help to round out the meal.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices. Consider adding some dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the sauce for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken thighs. This can cause them to become dry and tough, rather than moist and tender.
Not deglazing the skillet properly. This can cause the sauce to be too thick and sticky, rather than smooth and creamy.
Not stirring the sauce occasionally. This can cause it to burn or become too thick, rather than staying smooth and creamy.
Not letting the chicken rest before serving. This can cause the juices to run out of the chicken, making it dry and tough.
Not using high-quality ingredients. This can cause the dish to lack flavor and texture, rather than being rich and satisfying.
Not adjusting the cooking time for the chicken thighs. This can cause them to be undercooked or overcooked, rather than being cooked to perfection.

Variations and Substitutions

Consider adding some diced bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use different types of cheese, such as parmesan or feta, to add extra flavor to the sauce.
Add some spice to the dish by using hot sauce or red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be aware that they may be drier and less flavorful.
Add some chopped bacon or pancetta to the sauce for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, to add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Consider serving the chicken with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

What to Serve With Chicken Fricassee

Chicken Fricassee is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, for a healthy and flavorful option. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.

Some other options for serving Chicken Fricassee include serving it with a side salad, such as a green salad or a caprese salad, or serving it with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice. You could also consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or asparagus, for a light and healthy option.

Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sproutsMashed potatoes or cauliflower riceSteamed vegetables, such as green beans or asparagusSide salad, such as a green salad or a caprese saladRoasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower riceGrilled or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Chicken Fricassee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store it in the refrigerator, simply place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate it at 40 F (4 C) or below.

To freeze the dish, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer at 0 F (-18 C) or below. When you're ready to reheat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's hot and bubbly.

It's also possible to make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook it. Simply prepare the chicken and sauce as instructed, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook it.

When reheating the dish, make sure to heat it until it's hot and bubbly, but not boiling. This will help to prevent the sauce from breaking and becoming too thick. You can also add a little bit of cream or broth to the sauce if it becomes too thick during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Fricassee?

Chicken Fricassee is a type of chicken dish that originated in France. It's made with chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, and is typically served with a side of noodles or rice.

Is Chicken Fricassee a healthy dish?

Chicken Fricassee can be a healthy dish if made with healthy ingredients and portion sizes. It's a good source of protein and fiber, and can be made with low-fat cream and cheese to reduce the calorie count.

Can I make Chicken Fricassee ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Fricassee ahead of time. Simply prepare the chicken and sauce as instructed, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook it.

How do I store Chicken Fricassee?

Can I freeze Chicken Fricassee?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fricassee. To freeze it, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer at 0 F (-18 C) or below.

How do I reheat Chicken Fricassee?

To reheat Chicken Fricassee, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's hot and bubbly. You can also add a little bit of cream or broth to the sauce if it becomes too thick during reheating.

Can I make Chicken Fricassee in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Chicken Fricassee in a slow cooker. Simply prepare the chicken and sauce as instructed, then place it in the slow cooker and cook it on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.

Is Chicken Fricassee a keto-friendly dish?

Yes, Chicken Fricassee can be a keto-friendly dish if made with keto-friendly ingredients and portion sizes. It's a good source of protein and fat, and can be made with low-carb cream and cheese to reduce the carbohydrate count.

The Full Recipe

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