Chicken Wings Fricassee is a classic, old-fashioned dish featuring tender, sautéed chicken wings cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy. This comforting, budget-friendly meal is perfect for serving over hot cooked rice and is sure to impress with its deep, savory taste. A true Southern favorite, this dish is simple to make and packed with flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 12 chicken wings (about 2 1/2 pounds)
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Hot cooked rice, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken wings into three sections, discarding the wing tips.
2. Coat the wings: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, seasoned salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Toss the wings in the mixture until evenly coated.
3. Brown the wings: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the wings on all sides until golden.
4. Add aromatics: Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and fragrant.
5. Simmer: Add water, salt, and remaining pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Serve: Spoon the chicken and gravy over hot cooked rice and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 477
• Fat: 32g (7g saturated fat)
• Cholesterol: 92mg
• Sodium: 1062mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g (5g sugars, 2g fiber)
• Protein: 31g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together traditional cooking techniques with modern convenience, making it a great addition to any meal plan. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Rich, Homemade Gravy – The flour-coated wings help thicken the gravy, creating a sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice.
• Tender, Flavorful Chicken – Slow simmering ensures the chicken wings stay juicy and soak up the savory flavors.
• Easy and Affordable – Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, making it a great budget-friendly meal.
• Versatile Pairings – Can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A Comforting Classic – This dish brings nostalgia with its old-fashioned, home-cooked appeal.

What is a Fricassee?

A fricassee is a traditional cooking method that falls somewhere between a stew and a sauté. The meat is first browned in fat, then simmered in a flavorful liquid to create a rich, thickened sauce. Unlike a traditional stew where meat is boiled from the start, fricassee ensures the meat retains its golden-brown crust while absorbing maximum flavor from the sauce.

This technique has French origins but is popular in Southern and Creole cuisine, where it is often made with chicken, pork, or even seafood.

Choosing the Right Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are the perfect cut for a fricassee because they are:

• Affordable – Wings are one of the most budget-friendly cuts of chicken.
• Flavorful – The skin and bones contribute to a richer, deeper taste when cooked in a sauce.
• Tender and Juicy – Slow simmering breaks down the connective tissue, making the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.

For best results, separate the wings into drumettes and flats, discarding the wing tips (or saving them for homemade chicken broth).

The Secret to a Deeply Flavorful Gravy

The heart of this dish is the gravy, which is made directly in the same pan used to brown the chicken. This technique builds layers of flavor and ensures the gravy is rich and deeply seasoned.

Here’s how to achieve the perfect gravy:

• Use Seasoned Flour – Coating the chicken in flour before browning creates a base for thickening the gravy.
• Caramelize the Onions – Cooking onions until they soften and turn golden enhances their natural sweetness.
• Deglaze with Water or Broth – Scraping up the browned bits from the pan ensures all the flavor is incorporated into the sauce.
• Simmer for Maximum Flavor – Allowing the chicken to simmer in the gravy for 30-35 minutes creates a sauce that is deep, rich, and comforting.

For extra depth, consider replacing water with low-sodium chicken broth or adding a splash of white wine for a French-inspired twist.

How to Get the Perfect Golden-Brown Chicken Wings

Browning the chicken wings properly is essential for building the best texture and flavor. Follow these tips to ensure crispy, golden wings before they go into the gravy:

• Pat the Chicken Dry – Removing excess moisture helps the flour adhere better and creates a crispy, golden crust.
• Use the Right Oil – Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry the wings in batches to allow even browning.
• Let the Wings Cook Undisturbed – Avoid flipping too often; let each side develop a deep golden color before turning.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Wings Fricassee is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some traditional ways to enjoy it:

• Over Steamed Rice – A classic Southern pairing that absorbs the savory gravy.
• With Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the dish beautifully.
• Alongside Buttery Biscuits – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• With Grits or Polenta – A great alternative to rice that adds extra heartiness.

To balance the richness of the dish, serve with a simple green vegetable like sautéed green beans, collard greens, or roasted Brussels sprouts.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Here’s how to store and reheat leftovers:

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken and change the gravy’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common mistakes can impact the final result:

• Skipping the Browning Step – Skipping this step results in less flavor in the gravy. Browning is essential!
• Not Simmering Long Enough – The longer the chicken simmers, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
• Using Too Much Flour – Too much flour can make the gravy too thick or pasty. Stick to the recommended amount.
• Overcrowding the Pan – This prevents the chicken from browning properly, leading to a soggy texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Wings Fricassee is a timeless, comforting dish that showcases the best of Southern home cooking. With its crispy, golden-browned chicken simmered in a rich, savory gravy, this meal is the perfect combination of flavor and comfort.

Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, this dish delivers satisfying, old-fashioned goodness that brings people together around the table. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with deep, slow-cooked flavors that make it a family favorite.

For anyone looking to try a new take on classic Southern cooking, this Chicken Wings Fricassee recipe is a must-try. Once you taste the tender chicken, rich gravy, and perfectly paired side dishes, it will quickly become a go-to comfort meal in your household.