Chicken fricassee with dumplings is a classic dish that has a rich history and a delightful flavor profile. Its popularity can be traced back to traditional French cuisine, where it was a staple in many households. The term “fricassee” refers to a cooking method that involves browning meat, then simmering it in a flavorful sauce until tender.
The history of chicken fricassee can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was a popular dish among the French aristocracy. It was considered a luxurious and elegant meal, often served at lavish banquets and feasts. Over time, the dish gained popularity among the general population and became a beloved comfort food.
The flavor profile of chicken fricassee is a harmonious combination of savory, aromatic, and creamy elements. The chicken is typically browned in butter or oil, then braised in a flavorful broth or white wine sauce. This results in tender, juicy meat with a rich and comforting taste. The sauce is often thickened with flour or cream, adding a velvety texture and enhancing the overall flavor. Herbs such as thyme, parsley, and bay leaves are commonly used to infuse the dish with additional depth and fragrance.
Chicken fricassee with dumplings is traditionally served as a hearty one-pot meal. The dumplings, made from a simple mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, and milk, are dropped into the simmering sauce or broth during the final stages of cooking. The dumplings cook by steaming in the flavorful liquid, absorbing some of the sauce’s essence and becoming fluffy and tender.
To serve chicken fricassee with dumplings, the chicken pieces are placed on a serving platter or individual plates, surrounded by the creamy sauce and dumplings. It is often garnished with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley, to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal. This comforting dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
Today, chicken fricassee with dumplings continues to be a beloved classic in many cuisines around the world. Its combination of flavors, textures, and heartiness make it a comforting and satisfying meal for both special occasions and everyday dining.
Chicken Fricassee with dumplings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4 pounds, cut into pieces
- ½ Cup all-purpose flour
- 1 Tsp salt
- ½ Tsp black pepper
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Cup chicken broth
- 1 Cup dry white wine
- 1 Cup heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 2 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Ingredients for Dumplings:
- 2 Cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- ½ Tsp salt
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter cold and cubed
- ¾ Cup whole milk
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth and white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add milk, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and add the heavy cream, parsley, and thyme. Stir well.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, gently stirring to combine with the sauce and dumplings. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Serve the Chicken Fricassee with Dumplings in shallow bowls, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
