Oh, let me tell you about the comforting magic of French chicken casserole a la normande! This dish has a way of wrapping you in a cozy hug, reminding me of family dinners at my grandmother’s house. I can still picture us gathered around the table, the rich aroma of chicken, apples, and cream filling the air, making everyone’s mouth water. Each bite was a delightful harmony of flavors, the sweetness of the apples perfectly balancing the savory chicken. It’s a classic that brings a taste of France into your home, and trust me, it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want to savor something warm and delicious. You’ll love it!

Ingredients for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Gather these simple yet delightful ingredients to create your comforting casserole. You’ll need:

• 4 chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on work best for flavor, but feel free to use boneless if you prefer.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will help to brown the chicken and add richness.
• 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion is perfect for that sweet, aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor, so don’t skip this!
• 2 apples, sliced: I love using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the dish creamy and luxurious.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking!
• Fresh thyme for garnish: A sprinkle of thyme adds a beautiful touch just before serving.

How to Prepare French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this delightful casserole! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish that sings with flavor.

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken, which helps it brown beautifully.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Thighs

Once the oil is hot, add the 4 chicken thighs skin-side down. Brown them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden and deliciously crisp. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your casserole!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

After the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 4: Cook the Apples

Next, toss in the sliced apples and cook for another 3-4 minutes. This will soften them and let their sweetness mingle with the savory flavors already in the pot, creating a delightful balance.

Step 5: Combine the Cream and Broth

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Mix everything well, so the flavors combine beautifully. It’s looking good already!

Step 6: Season and Simmer

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then return the chicken thighs to the pot. Cover it and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow cooking will make the chicken tender and infuse all those flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, when it’s ready, garnish with fresh thyme just before serving. This adds a lovely color and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the dish. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. Each serving of this delicious French chicken casserole a la normande typically contains about 450 calories, 30g of fat, 30g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. Perfect for a hearty meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a comforting dish that warms the soul, perfect for chilly nights.
• Easy to make with straightforward steps, great for cooks of all levels.
• Family-friendly and sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
• A delightful blend of savory chicken and sweet apples, offering a unique flavor.
• Leftovers are just as delicious, making it great for meal prep!

Tips for Success

To make your French chicken casserole a la normande truly shine, here are some pro tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the chicken; that golden crust adds tons of flavor. If you find the sauce too thick, just add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Also, let the casserole simmer gently—this allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully. If you want an extra kick, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of nutmeg. Lastly, always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a little extra salt can really elevate the dish!

Variations of French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with this recipe! Try adding different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor twist. You could also throw in some carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition. Want some extra zing? A splash of apple brandy or Calvados can elevate the dish to new heights! And for a creamy touch, consider stirring in some crème fraîche instead of heavy cream. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about making it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftovers of your French chicken casserole a la normande, simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. If you prefer the microwave, cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short increments, checking often to avoid overcooking. This way, you’ll retain that delicious creaminess and flavor in every bite!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta.

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande: 7 Comforting Steps

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A classic French chicken casserole featuring apples and cream.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Add sliced apples and cook for a few minutes.
5. Stir in cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Notes

• Serve with crusty bread.
• Can substitute chicken thighs with breasts.
• Add carrots for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Casserole
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: french chicken casserole a la normande