Print

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Indulge in the comforting embrace of French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, a dish that warms the heart and delights the senses. This recipe features tender chicken simmered with sweet apples, aromatic thyme, and a rich, creamy sauce that brings together flavors in perfect harmony. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is simple to prepare and offers make-ahead convenience. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite. With endless variations and substitutions available, this dish is both versatile and satisfying, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
  • 4 shallots (diced) or one medium onion
  • 1 rib celery (diced)
  • 45 thyme sprigs
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp apple juice
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 85 ml chicken stock
  • 2 apples (peeled, cored, and cut into wedges)
  • 125 ml heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
  2. Pat dry the chicken pieces with a paper towel and season with salt.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium-high heat; brown the chicken on all sides, then set aside.
  4. In the same pan, sauté diced shallots and celery until soft; add minced garlic for an additional minute.
  5. Stir in apple juice to deglaze the pan, then mix in flour to form a paste.
  6. Gradually add chicken stock, stirring until thickened; mix in apple cider and return chicken to the pot.
  7. Cover and bake for 30 minutes; uncover and bake for another 30 minutes.
  8. Stir in cream before serving; fold in cooked apple wedges.

Nutrition