French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table, then let me introduce you to my all-time favorite—French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl! With tender chicken braised in apple cider and paired with sweet apples, it’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. The delightful combination of flavors makes this casserole truly special, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

There’s something magical about the way the chicken soaks up all those delicious juices. It feels like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life—like sharing a meal with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love the flavors in this casserole, making it an instant hit at dinner time.
• Easy preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal bubbling away in the oven while you relax.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of chicken, apples, and creamy sauce warms both your heart and your stomach.
• Make-ahead convenience: This casserole is great for prepping in advance; just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be simple and enjoyable, and this recipe features wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious French Chicken Casserole a la Normande:

For the Casserole

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• Salt
• 4 shallots (diced or one medium onion)
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 4-5 thyme sprigs
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 125g/4 oz bacon lardons (or 6 strips of bacon, chopped)
• 2 tbsp apple juice or barley tea
• 2 tbsp flour
• 85 ml/1/3 cup chicken stock
• 400ml/1 1/2 cups hard dry apple cider (such as Strongbow)
• 2 apples (peeled, cored and cut into wedges)
• 125ml/1/2 cup double cream/heavy cream

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande by trying out these delicious variations:

• Swap the protein: You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer white meat. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Pears make for a lovely alternative to apples if you’re looking for something different.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version without losing creaminess.

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Turn your oven on to 180C/350F. Pat dry those beautiful chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel, then sprinkle salt all over them. This step ensures that your chicken gets nice and crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown your chicken pieces until they’re golden all over. This not only adds flavor but also gives them that lovely color we all adore. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a separate platter.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Next up, let’s fry those bacon lardons over medium heat until they render their fat. If there’s too much fat after cooking, feel free to discard some. Once they’re nice and crispy, transfer them to the same platter as your chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Shallots and Celery

In that same pan where all those tasty bits are left behind, add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme. Cook over low heat until they’re soft but not colored—about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor right before deglazing with apple juice!

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Now it’s time to add flour to create a roux! Stir it into the mixture until it forms a paste. Slowly pour in your chicken stock while stirring continuously until it resembles thick gravy. Then add that lovely apple cider—we’re building layers of flavor here!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return both the browned chicken and crispy bacon back into the casserole dish along with another couple of sprigs of thyme. Bring everything to a boil; this is where all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Cover your casserole dish with a lid and pop it into your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. After that time, uncover it and let it bake for another 30 minutes so those flavors deepen even further.

Step 8: Finish with Apples & Cream

While that’s baking away, fry up those apple wedges in some reserved chicken fat or butter until they’re golden brown but do watch them closely! When your casserole is done baking, stir in heavy cream, let it cook uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, then fold in those cooked apples before serving over potatoes or rice.

And there you have it! A delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Creating a comforting and flavorful casserole can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here are some pro insights to ensure your dish turns out perfect!

• Choose the right chicken parts: Using thighs and legs adds moisture and flavor, making your casserole rich and succulent, unlike leaner cuts that might dry out during cooking.
• Don’t rush the browning: Taking the time to brown the chicken properly builds depth of flavor. This caramelization creates a delicious base for your casserole that elevates the overall taste.
• Adjust the seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Since each ingredient can vary in flavor, adjusting salt and herbs gradually ensures a well-balanced dish that’s just right for you.
• Use fresh thyme: Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor. If possible, use fresh thyme instead of dried to enhance the aromatic qualities of your casserole.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven helps the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Serving this delightful casserole is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some simple ways to present your dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: Sprinkling freshly chopped thyme over the top not only looks appealing but also reinforces the herbaceous notes in your dish.
• Sliced fresh apples: A few slices of apple scattered around the plate add color and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up the rich sauce from the casserole, enhancing every mouthful.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a burst of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chicken and cream.
• Crusty French bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate, ensuring you don’t miss out on any deliciousness.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables offers a nutritious option packed with texture and flavor, complementing the creamy elements of the casserole while keeping things vibrant.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing for family or guests. Enjoy your culinary journey through France right from your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for busy weeknights or just want to enjoy the comforting flavors later, this dish holds up beautifully in storage.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying this delightful dish!

Can I customize the ingredients in French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots or add your favorite herbs. Just remember to keep the core elements for that authentic taste.

What can I serve with French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with rice, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a comforting meal on its own!

How long does French Chicken Casserole a la Normande last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it should last about 3 days.

Can I make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande without cream?

Yes! You can substitute the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This casserole is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande as much as I do! Its rich flavors and comforting aroma will surely warm your kitchen and your heart. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and any variations you try—cooking is all about creativity! Happy cooking!