Gordon Ramsay Chicken Fricassee

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee is a modern take on the classic French dish, featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce with mushrooms, bacon, and aromatic herbs. This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion and brings a touch of elegance to your dining table.

What is Chicken Fricassee?

Chicken Fricassee is a traditional French method of cooking where chicken pieces are sautéed and then braised in a flavorful liquid, resulting in tender meat enveloped in a luscious sauce. Gordon Ramsay’s version incorporates ingredients like smoked bacon, mushrooms, and fresh herbs to enhance the depth of flavor.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Peppercorn Sauce
• Gordon Ramsay Chimichurri Sauce
• Gordon Ramsay Philly Cheesesteak
• Gordon Ramsay Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steak

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

• Rich and Savory Flavor – The combination of chicken, bacon, and mushrooms creates a hearty and satisfying taste.
• Elegant Yet Approachable – This dish brings French culinary flair to your kitchen without being overly complex.
• Versatile Pairings – Pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
• Perfect for Gatherings – Impress guests with a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for preparing in advance.

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large free-range chicken, jointed into 8 pieces (or 4 chicken legs, separated into thighs and drumsticks)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season
• 150g smoked bacon lardons or diced streaky bacon
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 150g chestnut mushrooms, halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves only
• 75ml brandy (optional)
• 450ml chicken stock
• Small handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

1. Sauté the Chicken
   Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-based sauté pan over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the hot pan, skin-side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
2. Add Bacon and Aromatics
   Turn the chicken pieces over and add the bacon lardons, crushed garlic cloves, and halved mushrooms to the pan. Stir in the bay leaf, rosemary sprigs, and thyme leaves.
3. Deglaze with Brandy
   Pour in the brandy (if using) and carefully ignite it to flambé, allowing the alcohol to burn off. If not flambéing, simply let the brandy simmer for a minute to evaporate the alcohol.
4. Add Chicken Stock
   Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes over medium-low heat.
5. Simmer Until Tender
   Cover the pan and continue to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Thicken the Sauce
   Remove the chicken pieces and set them aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce reduce and thicken slightly for a few minutes.
7. Final Touches
   Discard the bay leaf, rosemary sprigs, and garlic cloves. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the pieces to coat them well.
8. Serve
   Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot alongside your choice of sides.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee?

• Buttered Noodles
  The lightness of egg noodles tossed in butter complements the rich sauce.
• Steamed Green Beans
  Adds a fresh, crisp element to balance the meal.
• Mashed Potatoes
  Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty French Bread
  Ideal for dipping and enjoying every drop of the delicious sauce.
• Rice Pilaf
  Aromatic rice pilaf provides a subtle backdrop that lets the fricassee shine.

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

• Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken
  This adds depth of flavor and keeps the meat moist during cooking.
• Properly Sear the Chicken
  Achieving a golden-brown sear enhances the overall taste and appearance.
• Flambé with Caution
  If choosing to flambé, ensure safety by using a long lighter and keeping a lid nearby to extinguish flames if necessary.
• Simmer Gently
  Maintain a gentle simmer to allow flavors to meld without overcooking the chicken.
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving
  Taste the sauce and add salt or pepper as needed to suit your preference.

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

• Creamy Mustard Addition
  Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
• Vegetable Medley
  Incorporate diced carrots and pearl onions for added sweetness and color.
• Herb Substitutions
  Experiment with tarragon or sage to impart different herbal notes.
• White Wine Enhancement
  Replace half of the chicken stock with dry white wine for a nuanced depth of flavor.
• Cream Enrichment
  Add a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a richer sauce.

Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

Refrigeration

Allow the chicken fricassee to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the chicken fricassee in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure the sauce completely covers the chicken to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing

Thaw frozen chicken fricassee overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee

Stovetop Method (Best for Flavor & Texture)

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.

Oven Method

Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

Microwave Method (Quick Option)

Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make chicken fricassee ahead of time?

Yes! Chicken fricassee tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

What can I use instead of brandy in this recipe?

You can substitute white wine, dry sherry, or extra chicken broth for the brandy.

Can I make this dish without mushrooms?

Yes! Simply omit the mushrooms or replace them with carrots, peas, or pearl onions for a different take on the dish.

Is chicken fricassee gluten-free?

Gordon Ramsay’s version of chicken fricassee is naturally gluten-free, as it does not use flour to thicken the sauce. However, always check ingredient labels to be sure.

Final Words

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fricassee is an elegant yet comforting dish that combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich, aromatic sauce.

Make it for a weeknight dinner or special gathering, and enjoy a classic French-inspired meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

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