MICROWAVE CHICKEN FRICASEE

Steps:

• 1. In 5-qt. casserole arrange chicken pieces. Rub liberally with oil and season with salt, pepper, paprika and top with bay leaf. Add onions, celery and carrots. Pour 8oz of chicken broth over chicken. Liquid should be no more than 1/2 way up casserole dish.
• 2. Cover with lid or plastic wrap, microwave on high for 15 minutes turning half way through cooking time. Add another 5 minutes if juices are still extremely pink. The idea is to have the chicken be 3/4 of the way done.
• 3. Remove the chicken from the casserole dish. Skim the fat from the broth if you like. You may keep the chicken pieces whole or remove the skin and bones from the chicken. Thicken the broth with the instructions below.
• 4. To Thicken broth: Combine 1/2 cup flour and remainder of broth 4oz. plus cold water to make the measurement 1/2 cup then add the slurry to the veggies and broth stirring very well to avoid lumps. Add chicken back into veggies and sauce. Microwave at High for 5-10 minutes, checking the sauce so it thickens into a gravy until hot and bubbly. Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles or dumplings.
• 5. Tips: Chicken pieces should be equal in size so they cook evenly. You may add any seasoning blend such as italian, poultry, spicy to your taste. Be careful not to fill the casserole dish more than half way to prevent overflowing.