French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that will warm your heart and feed your family, then you absolutely need to try the French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with the sweetness of apples and the rich flavor of cider, creating a meal that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

What makes this casserole so special is the way it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. The combination of thyme, garlic, and creamy sauce elevates the dish, making it a favorite at our table. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option; just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of apple cider and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious casserole:

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

This recipe is quite flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken breasts instead of thighs and legs if you prefer white meat!
• Add more veggies: Carrots or mushrooms would make a great addition for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the fruit: Pears can substitute apples if you’re looking for something different.
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version!

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F. Pat dry the chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel and sprinkle salt all over them. Drying them helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish when we sear them later!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in the chicken pieces and brown them until they’re golden on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set aside on a platter. Discard any excess fat if needed; we want just enough for flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Next, fry those bacon lardons over medium heat until they render their fat. If there’s too much fat left behind after cooking, feel free to discard some. Then add this crunchy goodness to your platter with the chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In that same pan, toss in diced shallots and celery along with two sprigs of thyme. Cook these over low heat until soft but not browned—about 5-7 minutes. Adding minced garlic last ensures its fresh flavor shines through without burning.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Pour in some apple juice while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s where all the flavor lives! Let it simmer until most of the liquid evaporates before adding flour. Stir until combined into a paste before gradually whisking in chicken stock followed by apple cider.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return both the chicken and bacon back into your casserole dish along with another couple sprigs of thyme. Bring everything to a gentle boil before moving on.

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 has passed, remove the lid and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes so that it can develop those wonderful flavors.

Step 8: Finish with Creamy Apples

While everything bakes away, fry your apple wedges in reserved chicken fat or butter until they’re golden but not mushy—keep an eye on them! When ready, take out your casserole from the oven, stir in heavy cream, then let it cook uncovered for an additional 20 minutes before gently folding in those beautiful cooked apples.

And there you have it—your very own French Chicken Casserole a la Normande! Serve with potatoes or rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Cooking this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in thighs and legs add more flavor and keep the meat juicy during cooking, making for a richer casserole.
• Let the chicken rest: After browning the chicken, letting it rest helps maintain its moisture and tenderness, ensuring each bite is succulent.
• Quality apple cider matters: Opt for a good-quality apple cider as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish, infusing every ingredient with a lovely sweetness and depth.
• Don’t rush the onions and celery: Taking your time to sauté these ingredients until soft ensures they develop their natural sweetness, contributing to a well-rounded flavor in your casserole.
• Save some apple wedges for garnish: Frying extra apple slices to sprinkle on top just before serving not only adds visual appeal but also gives a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the casserole.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Presenting your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped parsley: A handful of finely chopped parsley can brighten up your dish and add an extra layer of taste.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The smoothness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich sauce of the casserole, soaking up all those delightful flavors.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Crusty baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette on the side for sopping up any leftover sauce—a classic French touch!
• Simple mixed salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing can balance out the hearty casserole with its freshness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week without much fuss. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers so that every bite remains as delightful as when it was freshly made.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storage.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 180C/350F until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

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

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts; however, they may cook faster than thighs. Adjust cooking time as needed to prevent drying out.

What is French Chicken Casserole a la Normande typically served with?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or potatoes, making it a comforting and hearty meal.

How can I make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande dairy-free?

To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can include vegetables like carrots or peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warm flavors and cherished moments around the dinner table. Enjoy making it and savoring every bite—your loved ones will be grateful for this comforting dish! Happy cooking!