Southern Chicken Fricassee is a cherished recipe passed down through generations, beloved for its comforting flavors and heartwarming appeal, perfect for cozy family dinners. This stew-like dish features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy gravy that pairs beautifully with garlic-mashed potatoes and crisp green beans, creating a wholesome meal that soothes both body and soul, especially on chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- 3 chicken pieces (such as thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup seasoned flour (for dredging)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tbsp oil (for browning)
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 534.1
- Total Fat: 40.7g
- Saturated Fat: 9.3g
- Cholesterol: 109.3mg
- Sodium: 628.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 12.3g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Protein: 28.5g
Cooking Instructions:
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Preparation: Start by combining the salt, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup of flour in a shallow bowl or plate.
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Dredging: Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
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Browning: Heat the oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches until they develop a golden crust on all sides. This step helps seal in the juices and enhances the flavor of the dish.
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Baking: Once all chicken pieces are browned, return them to the skillet or Dutch oven. Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan. Cover and transfer to a preheated oven set at 325°F (165°C). Bake for 1 hour.
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Uncovering: After 1 hour of baking, uncover the skillet or Dutch oven and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through completely and ensures a tender texture.
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Preparing Gravy: Remove the chicken pieces from the pan and transfer them to a serving platter. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
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Deglazing and Thickening: Skim off any excess fat from the drippings in the pan, if desired. Evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup of flour over the drippings while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of milk and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Simmer the gravy over low to medium heat, stirring often, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Serving: To serve, pour the creamy milk gravy over the chicken pieces and alongside garlic-mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty French bread to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy.
This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings a nostalgic warmth to the table, reminiscent of home-cooked meals enjoyed with loved ones. Its ease of preparation, along with its hearty flavors and creamy texture, makes it a standout choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions where comfort food reigns supreme.
