French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that makes your kitchen smell heavenly, you’ve come to the right place! This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is one of my all-time favorite recipes. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant thyme, and sweet apples braised in cider creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also warming and satisfying.

What I love most about this casserole is how it brings everyone together around the table. It’s perfect for sharing stories and laughter, making it a lovely addition to any dining occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a hearty meal without breaking a sweat.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delightful flavors of this dish.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat for an effortless dinner on busy nights.
• Comforting flavors: The blend of chicken, apples, and herbs creates a cozy and inviting dish that warms your heart.
• Impressive presentation: Serve it straight from the oven for an eye-catching centerpiece at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one adds its own unique flavor to the dish, making it truly special. Here’s what to gather:

For the Base

• 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 Flavor

• 125g/4 oz bacon lardons (or 6 strips of bacon, chopped)
• 2 tbsp apple juice or barley tea
• 2 tbsp flour

For Braising

• 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even turkey if you want something different.
• Change up the veggies: Add carrots or parsnips for extra texture and sweetness.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, brown the chicken parts in olive oil over medium-high heat until they’re golden. This process adds depth to the flavor! Once browned, remove them to a platter and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Next, fry those bacon lardons in the same pan over medium heat until they’re crispy. If there’s too much fat rendered, feel free to discard some—just keep enough to add flavor! Once done, transfer the bacon to your platter with the chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Now it’s time to create that aromatic base! In the same pan, add shallots and celery along with two sprigs of thyme. Cook over low heat until soft but not colored—about 5-7 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic for just 30 seconds more. Pour in some apple juice while scraping up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom—this step elevates our sauce!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Add flour into your vegetable mix and stir until it forms a paste. Slowly pour in chicken stock while stirring until you get a thick gravy-like consistency. Finally, pour in that luscious apple cider and stir again before adding back in your chicken and bacon along with more thyme sprigs.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Cover your casserole dish with its lid and pop it into your preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that time has passed, uncover it and let it bake for another 30 minutes so everything can meld beautifully together while giving you those delightful aromas wafting through your home.

Step 7: Finish with Apples & Cream

While your casserole bakes away happily, fry those apple wedges in reserved fat or butter until they’re golden brown—keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! When your casserole is ready, stir in heavy cream followed by those cooked apple wedges and allow everything to cook uncovered for another 20 minutes.

And voilà! Serve this beautiful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande with potatoes or rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug on chilly days! Enjoy every bite with loved ones gathered around!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Creating this delightful casserole is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right chicken parts: Opting for thighs and legs ensures tender meat that won’t dry out during cooking, giving your casserole that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the chicken. This step develops a rich flavor base that enhances the entire dish, making it more delicious.
• Use fresh thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the taste of your casserole. If you can, use fresh thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile.
• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of cream based on your preference. A little less will keep it lighter, while more will make it richer and more decadent.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Serving this comforting dish can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some ideas to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Thinly sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and crunch, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce of the casserole, soaking up those delicious flavors.
• Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness provides a lovely contrast to the soft chicken and creamy sauce while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf flavored with herbs offers a perfect base for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as an excellent side for dipping into the flavorful sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.

Enjoy crafting this delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande! It’s sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also saves you time during busy weeknights. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your delicious casserole later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into individual servings or keep it whole in a freezer-safe container.
• Seal tightly and label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat portions in the microwave on medium power until warm.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

What makes French Chicken Casserole a la Normande special?

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is special because of its rich flavors developed from slow-braising chicken in apple cider, fresh herbs, and sweet apples. The combination creates a comforting dish that feels both rustic and elegant.

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

Absolutely! You can swap out chicken thighs for drumsticks or use different types of apples based on your preference. Just ensure that any substitutions fit within your dietary needs.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, French Chicken Casserole a la Normande will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Is French Chicken Casserole a la Normande suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping as it tastes even better after sitting for a day or two. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate filled with tender chicken, luscious cream, and sweet apples. Whether you’re serving it at family dinners or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this dish will surely delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking!