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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Pat dry the chicken pieces and season with salt.
- 2. Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, then set aside.
- 3. In the same dish, sauté diced shallots and celery until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- 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. Return the chicken to the dish, add thyme sprigs, bring to a boil, and transfer to the oven covered for 30 minutes.
- 6. Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes while frying apple wedges in reserved fat or butter.
- 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