French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that brings the rustic charm of French cuisine right into your home. This casserole features tender chicken braised in apple cider, enhanced with fresh thyme and sweet apples, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions. Its comforting flavors and creamy texture will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of chicken, apples, and herbs creates a rich taste that warms the heart.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this casserole allows you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit any gathering.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the apples and celery, it’s a wholesome choice for your family.
• A Touch of Elegance: Impress your guests with this classic French dish that offers gourmet flair without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Tools and Preparation

To make this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large casserole dish
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large casserole dish: Essential for even cooking and holds all the ingredients comfortably while allowing flavors to meld together.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping shallots, celery, and apples quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Ingredients

Chicken braised in apple cider with thyme and apples.

For the Chicken

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• salt

For the Vegetables

• 4 shallots (diced or one medium onion)
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 4-5 thyme sprigs
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For Flavoring

• 125g/4 oz Turkey Bacon lardons (or 6 strips of Turkey Bacon, chopped)
• 2 tbsp apple juice or barley tea
• 2 tbsp flour
• 85 ml/1/3 cup chicken stock

For Braising

• 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

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Turn the oven on to 180C/350F.
2. Pat dry chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel.
3. Season generously with salt.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. In a large casserole dish, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken parts and brown until golden.
3. Remove them from the dish and set aside on a separate platter.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon

1. In the same dish, add Turkey Bacon lardons over medium heat.
2. Fry until rendered; if very fatty, discard most of the fat.
3. Transfer cooked Turkey Bacon to the platter with browned chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. To the remaining fat in the pan, add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme.
2. Cook over low heat until soft but not colored (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 5: Create Gravy Base

1. Pour in apple juice while scraping up bits from the bottom of the pan; cook until alcohol burns off.
2. Mix in flour until combined into a paste.
3. Gradually add chicken stock while stirring until you have a thick gravy-like consistency.
4. Pour in apple cider and mix well.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. Return browned chicken and Turkey Bacon to the casserole dish along with remaining thyme sprigs.
2. Bring everything to a boil before transferring it to the preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake

1. Cover casserole with a lid and bake for 30 minutes at 180C/350F.
2. Uncover and continue baking for another 30 minutes while frying apple wedges in reserved chicken fat or butter.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Remove casserole from oven; stir in heavy cream.
2. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes before serving.
3. Stir in cooked apple wedges before serving alongside potatoes or rice.

Enjoy this exquisite French Chicken Casserole a la Normande that promises delightful flavors in every bite!

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Fresh Thyme – Sprinkling fresh thyme leaves on top adds an aromatic touch and complements the dish beautifully.
• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley provides a burst of color and freshness.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices – Serve with slices of crusty French baguette for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Garlic Bread – A warm slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly, offering a savory complement to the casserole.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Leaf Salad – Serve over a light mixed leaf salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach and Arugula – These greens add peppery notes that balance the creaminess of the casserole.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Carrots and Parships – Their sweetness enhances the dish while providing added texture.
• Steamed Green Beans – A simple side of green beans adds color and crunch, balancing out the richness.

How to Perfect French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

To make your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande truly outstanding, follow these helpful tips for perfection every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Selecting fresh herbs, good-quality chicken, and ripe apples will greatly improve the flavor.
• Don’t Rush Browning – Properly browning the chicken enhances its flavor; take your time to achieve that golden color.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully – Taste and adjust salt as needed throughout cooking to ensure flavor balance without overpowering.
• Incorporate Variety in Apples – For depth of flavor, consider using different apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps settle the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Enhance your meal with these complementary side dishes that pair wonderfully with French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Smooth mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up all those delicious juices from the casserole.
2. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs makes an excellent base for this rich dish.
3. Herb Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add texture and flavor contrast.
4. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts – Sweet caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out earthy tones that marry well with chicken.
5. Sautéed Zucchini – Lightly sautéed zucchini adds freshness without overwhelming the main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing crunch alongside creamy casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Monitor cooking times closely and remove it from heat as soon as it’s tender.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken can result in a less flavorful dish. Always brown the chicken first to develop rich flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality chicken or cider can compromise taste. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoning can make your casserole bland. Be generous with salt and herbs at every stage of cooking.
• Not Allowing Enough Time for Flavors to Develop: Rushing through cooking time limits flavor development. Give your dish time to simmer and meld together for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easier thawing.

Reheating French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande:

What type of apple is best for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

A tart apple variety such as Granny Smith works well because it balances sweetness and acidity.

Can I substitute chicken with another meat?

Yes! You can use turkey or lamb as alternatives while keeping the cooking method similar.

How do I adjust cooking time if using boneless chicken?

Boneless chicken cooks faster; reduce baking time by about 15-20 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Is there a dairy-free version of French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

What sides pair well with this casserole?

Serve it alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or herbs based on your preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of rustic French cooking. This comforting casserole features tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce made from apple juice, fresh herbs, and sweet apple wedges. The blend of flavors creates a delightful meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. With its creamy texture and aromatic ingredients, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 shallots (diced)
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 tbsp apple juice
• 85 ml chicken stock
• 2 apples (peeled, cored, and cut into wedges)
• 125 ml double cream

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Pat dry the chicken pieces and season with salt.
2. 2. Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, then set aside.
3. 3. In the same dish, sauté diced shallots and celery until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. 4. Pour in apple juice while scraping up bits from the pan; mix in flour to create a paste, then gradually add chicken stock, stirring until thickened.
5. 5. Return the chicken to the dish, add thyme sprigs, bring to a boil, and transfer to the oven covered for 30 minutes.
6. 6. Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes while frying apple wedges in reserved fat or butter.
7. 7. Stir in heavy cream before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg