Chicken in Cream Sauce “Mère Blanc ”

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Chicken in Cream Sauce, a classic French dish that exudes elegance and comfort. This arranged recipe, also known as “Mère Blanc,” showcases the tender and succulent chicken pieces bathed in a luxurious sauce made with white wine and heavy cream.

As you cook the Chicken in Cream Sauce, your kitchen will be filled with tantalizing aromas, as the chicken simmers in the fragrant blend of onions, mushrooms, garlic, and bouquet garni. The combination of these ingredients, along with the dry white wine and velvety cream, creates a delectable sauce that envelops the chicken pieces, imparting them with incredible flavor.

The Bresse chicken, known for its exceptional quality and flavor, is traditionally used in this recipe. However, you can also opt for any other free-range chicken to achieve equally delicious results. The careful browning of the chicken pieces before simmering them in the creamy sauce ensures that they are beautifully cooked and infused with rich, savory notes.

Serves 4 

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Bresse chicken or other free-range chicken, about 4 pounds
• Pepper and salt
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, quartered
• 10 white mushrooms, quartered
• 2 garlic cloves, unpeeled and smashed
• 1 bouquet garni
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 1 lemon

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Joint the chicken by cutting it into various pieces. Remove and discard the wing tips. Cut the wings in half. Separate the drumsticks from the thighs. Cut through the breastbone to obtain two filets. Season all the chicken pieces with pepper and salt.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté them until they are well browned on all sides, which should take about 15 minutes in total.
3. Add the quartered onion, quartered mushrooms, smashed garlic cloves, and bouquet garni to the skillet with the chicken. Continue cooking and stirring for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the dry white wine. Let the wine reduce slightly, then add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir everything together.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the chicken in the cream sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce coats the chicken evenly.
6. While the chicken is cooking, strain the sauce through a sieve to remove any solids. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm.
8. Serve the chicken pieces on individual serving plates and generously coat them with the wine and cream sauce.
9. Accompany the Chicken in Cream Sauce with steamed rice, which will perfectly complement the rich and creamy flavors of the dish.

Enjoy this classic French dish, Chicken in Cream Sauce, also known as “Mère Blanc.” The succulent chicken, cooked to perfection in a creamy wine-infused sauce, is a delight for the senses. The smooth and flavorful sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken pieces, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

SERVING:

When serving Chicken in Cream Sauce, consider these tips:

• Arrange the chicken pieces on individual serving plates, showcasing their golden-brown exterior and tender interior.
• Generously coat the chicken with the wine and cream sauce, allowing it to cascade over the pieces for a visually appealing presentation.
• Accompany the dish with steamed rice, which will absorb the luscious sauce and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a touch of vibrancy to the dish.
• Pair this indulgent dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.

Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a luxurious meal, Chicken in Cream Sauce is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic sauce, and delicate flavors creates a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the heart of French cuisine.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the arranged recipe, and savor the sublime flavors of Chicken in Cream Sauce. Delight in each bite of tender chicken and velvety sauce, and relish in the comfort and sophistication that this classic French dish brings to your table.