Poulet Fricassé Citron
A fragrant and tangy chicken dish where chicken pieces are simmered in a flavorful sauce with lemon, herbs, and sometimes a touch of cream or coconut milk for richness. It's a comforting and aromatic Seychellois classic.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(cut into pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended))
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 large Lemon(juiced, plus zest of half)
- 2 sprigs Thyme
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 200 ml Coconut milk(optional, for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh coriander
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 3
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Add chopped tomatoes, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until tomatoes start to break down.
- 6
Return the chicken to the pot. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf. Pour in enough water to almost cover the chicken. Bring to a simmer.
- 7
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- 8
If using, stir in the coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added richness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- 9
Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh coriander.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your preference for tanginess.
- ✓Serve with rice, breadfruit, or a simple salad.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Incorporate sliced bell peppers or other vegetables during the simmering process.
- For a richer sauce, a tablespoon of tomato paste can be added with the tomatoes.