Monday, October 12, 2009

A warm fuzzy Sunday

I was so happy that my folks were able to drive down from Washington for a visit yesterday.  We just don't have enough opportunities to spend time with them. One of those items N and I should put more effort into.

Instead of sharing any boring little details, I'll share the recipe I made for dinner instead. I was happy to find a version of this old family favorite that doesn't require a can of cream of chicken soup. :>)  I served this dish with baby red potatoes (instead of the usual rice) and baby carrots braised with thyme, garlic and lemon.

Tarragon Chicken Fricassée
3 1/2 to 4 pounds chicken pieces with skin and bone
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon
1/4 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Pat chicken dry and sprinkle all over with salt and pepper.

Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté chicken in 2 batches, skin side down first, turning over once, until browned, 10 to 12 minutes total per batch. Transfer to a plate.

Pour off all but 2 tablespoons oil from skillet, then cook shallots, garlic, and bay leaf over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until shallots are softened, about 2 minutes. Add wine and bring to a boil. Stir in cream, broth, and 1 tablespoon tarragon, then add chicken, skin side up, and simmer, covered, until just cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer chicken with tongs to a platter and keep warm, loosely covered. If necessary, boil sauce until thickened slightly.

Stir in lemon juice, remaining 1/2 tablespoon tarragon, and salt and pepper to taste. Discard bay leaf; pour sauce over chicken.

Gourmet
March 2007
2007-02-14 16:29:39.0

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