Creating Chicken Fricassee is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and brown for about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Incorporate Herbs: Sprinkle thyme, parsley, and add the bay leaf. Stir everything to combine.
7. Deglaze the Pot: Add the flour to the mixture and cook for about a minute. This will help thicken the sauce.
8. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
9. Return Chicken: Add the browned chicken back into the pot, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Simmer for 30-40 minutes.
10. Stir in Cream: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
11. Finish with Peas: If using, add frozen peas and allow to heat through for about 2 minutes.
12. Serve or Store: Return the chicken to the sauce to coat it before serving, or store for later use.

By following these simple steps, you will create a rich and flavorful Chicken Fricassee that everyone will love.