French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas, then you’ll love this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug when you take the first bite. The tender chicken braised in apple cider, paired with fragrant thyme and sweet apples, makes this a standout choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Trust me; it’s perfect for any occasion!

This casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. You’ll find that it combines simple ingredients into a delightful meal that everyone will adore. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Family-friendly: The blend of flavors is sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of chicken, apples, and creamy sauce creates a dish that’s truly heartwarming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each one adds its own special touch to create a flavorful and satisfying 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

One of the best things about this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or duck instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or parsnips for added nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.
• Spice it up: Add some chili flakes or paprika if you prefer a little heat in your casserole.

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Turn the oven on to 180C/350F. Preheating ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat dry chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel and sprinkle salt all over them. This helps to draw out moisture so you can achieve that beautiful golden color when browning.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them until golden on all sides. Remove them to a separate platter and set aside—this step adds depth of flavor!

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

Fry the bacon lardons over medium heat until their fat is rendered. If there’s too much fat, feel free to discard some. Once done, add the bacon to the platter with the chicken.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

In that same pan, add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme. Cook on low heat until soft but not colored—about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for an extra kick! Then add apple juice while scraping up those tasty bits stuck on the pan.

Step 6: Create Your Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the vegetable mixture and stir until it forms a paste. Gradually add chicken stock while stirring until it resembles thick gravy. Pour in apple cider next—this is where the magic happens! Return chicken and bacon back into the mix along with more thyme.

Step 7: Bake It Up

Cover your casserole dish with a lid and place it in your preheated oven. Cook for 30 minutes covered, then uncover it for another 30 minutes. While it’s baking, fry those apple wedges in some reserved fat or butter until they’re golden brown—keep an eye on them!

Step 8: Finish with Cream

Once out of the oven, stir in heavy cream for that luscious finish! Allow it to cook uncovered for another 20 minutes before mixing in those deliciously caramelized apple wedges.

And just like that, your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is ready to be served! Enjoy it alongside potatoes or rice for an unforgettable meal that will bring smiles all around your table!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with the right tips up your sleeve! Here are some pointers to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right chicken cuts: Using thighs and legs keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during the long cooking process. These cuts also hold up better to braising than breasts, which can dry out.

• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time browning the chicken and bacon. This step adds depth of flavor to the entire dish. A well-browned base means a richer sauce!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme truly shines in this recipe. Its fragrant notes enhance the overall taste, bringing that authentic French flair to your casserole.

• Adjust the apple cider: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to substitute half of the apple cider with additional chicken stock. This will balance out the sweetness while still keeping it delicious.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together even more beautifully, making each bite absolutely divine.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

This comforting casserole is not only hearty but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner table. Here are some ideas for how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs placed on top of your casserole just before serving add a pop of color and freshness.
• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a lovely contrast against the creamy sauce and enhances presentation.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent choice as they soak up all that luscious sauce, making every bite heavenly.
• Butter Braised Green Beans: Quick-cooked green beans tossed in butter bring a bright crunch that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Crusty Baguette: A warm baguette on the side is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce—nothing goes to waste!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish, balancing flavors wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande will surely impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not just a delightful dish to enjoy fresh; it’s also perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning ahead for busy weeknights or simply want to savor the flavors later, this recipe holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

Absolutely! You can use any combination of chicken parts you prefer. Just ensure that they are cooked thoroughly and adjust cooking times as needed based on size and type.

How do I make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will maintain the creamy texture without compromising flavor.

What sides pair well with French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

This casserole pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad also adds a nice touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this charming French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. It’s a dish that warms both the heart and home, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every moment of making it and savoring its rich flavors. Happy cooking!