French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is one of those meals that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your heart feel full. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet simple to prepare. Plus, this dish shines during family gatherings or casual dinner parties, bringing everyone together with its delicious aroma and rich flavors.

What makes this casserole so special? It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet apples, and fragrant thyme, all simmered to perfection in a luscious sauce. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of warm family dinners filled with laughter and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will savor the tender chicken and sweet apple flavors that make this dish a hit at any table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this casserole in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and fresh thyme creates a rich, aromatic sauce that elevates the humble chicken to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Each component contributes to the overall flavor of the dish without any fuss!

Main Ingredients

• 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 substitute with plant-based bacon if desired)
• 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 (or non-alcoholic cider)
• 2 apples (peeled, cored and cut into wedges)
• 125ml/1/2 cup double cream/heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey thighs or even plant-based alternatives for a different twist!
• Change up the veggies: Add carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add a warm spice note that complements the apples beautifully.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a healthier version without sacrificing taste.

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Turn the oven on to 180C/350F. Pat dry your chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel and sprinkle salt all over them. This step not only seasons your meat but also helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color when you sear them!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken parts in the pan until golden brown on all sides. This browning adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once browned, transfer them to a separate platter and set aside while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In the same pan, fry up those bacon lardons over medium heat until they become crispy. If there’s excess fat from your bacon, feel free to discard most of it but keep enough for flavor! Remove the crispy bacon from the pan and join it on the platter with your browned chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced shallots and celery into the same pan along with two sprigs of thyme. Cook these over low heat until soft but not colored—about 5-7 minutes. Adding minced garlic at this stage enhances the overall flavor profile. Stir it for about 30 seconds before introducing some apple juice; this helps deglaze the pan while scraping up all those delicious brown bits stuck at the bottom!

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Once you’ve scraped up those lovely bits, add flour to make a paste with fat from previous steps. Slowly stir in chicken stock until it’s thickened into a gravy-like consistency. Pour in your apple cider next—this will bring everything together beautifully! Return both chicken and bacon back into the pot along with more thyme sprigs before bringing it all to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Bake Your Casserole

Transfer your casserole dish into preheated oven covered with a lid for about 30 minutes. Afterward, uncover it and let it bake for another 30 minutes—this allows those flavors to meld perfectly! While it’s baking away, fry up some apple wedges in leftover chicken fat or butter until they’re golden brown; keep an eye on them as they cook quickly!

Step 7: Final Touches

After baking time is up, gently stir in heavy cream for added richness before placing back into oven uncovered for another 20 minutes. Finally, fold in those cooked apple wedges right before serving! This dish pairs wonderfully with potatoes or rice—you’ll want something to soak up that incredible sauce.

And there you have it—a delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Creating the perfect French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is all about attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. It enhances the aroma and taste of the casserole, making it truly authentic.

• Brown the chicken properly: Taking the time to brown the chicken until golden creates a deeper flavor base for your casserole. This step enriches the overall taste and gives an appealing color to the dish.

• Watch the apple wedges: Frying the apple wedges in reserved fat or butter adds a delicious caramelized sweetness. Be vigilant while cooking them, as they can burn quickly but will bring a lovely texture when added to the casserole.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This pause enhances every bite!

• Experiment with apples: Different varieties of apples can yield unique flavors. Consider using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the creamy sauce, or sweet ones like Fuji for extra sweetness.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Serving this delightful casserole is not only about presentation but also about complementing its rich flavors with suitable accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top of your casserole add a pop of color and emphasize its herby notes.
• Chopped parsley: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley just before serving brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh taste contrast.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting pairing, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce of your casserole.

• Steamed green beans: These fresh, crisp beans provide a delightful crunch and vibrant color that complements the richness of the chicken dish.

• Warm crusty bread: A rustic loaf is ideal for sopping up any remaining sauce on your plate, adding another layer of satisfaction to each bite.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette balances out the hearty casserole beautifully, refreshing your palate between bites.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious moment!

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 the fuss of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish if frozen or refrigerated.
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• For quick reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and legs for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more quickly. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re tender and juicy.

What makes French Chicken Casserole a la Normande special?

This casserole is unique due to its combination of tender chicken cooked in apple cider with aromatic thyme and sweet apples. It’s a comforting dish that beautifully marries savory and sweet flavors, making it a standout choice.

How do I enhance the flavor of my French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

You can enhance the flavor by adding additional herbs like rosemary or bay leaves during cooking. A pinch of nutmeg also complements the apples nicely!

Can I make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande without cream?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative. This will still provide a creamy texture while keeping it lighter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that brings everyone together. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying it out—happy cooking!

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