French-Style Creamy Chicken (Chicken Fricassée-Inspired)
No wonder this one’s a crowd-pleaser—this dish is classic French comfort at its finest. Think tender chicken gently simmered in a velvety, herb-kissed cream sauce, rich but not heavy, elegant yet totally approachable. It’s the kind of recipe French home cooks pass around because it always works.
This version is inspired by Chicken Fricassée, a beloved French staple that’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but very French 😉)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🍲 How to Make This Creamy French Chicken
1️⃣ Sear the Chicken
Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or slow cooker insert, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Build the Flavor Base
In the same pan, add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Create the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, and black pepper.
4️⃣ Simmer Gently
Return chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5️⃣ Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with plenty of sauce.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Cream sauces freeze best without cream—add fresh when reheating
- Reheat gently on low heat
