French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, sweet apples, and fragrant thyme, all simmered to perfection. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a unique blend of flavors that will impress your guests. The combination of chicken braised in apple cider creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole is straightforward to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chicken, apples, and thyme creates a taste sensation that balances savory and sweet notes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice or potatoes for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks beautiful on the table, making it ideal for gatherings or holidays.
• Comforting Dish: Perfect for chilly evenings, this casserole warms hearts and homes alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need to gather before starting your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large casserole dish
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large casserole dish: Ideal for browning chicken and baking the casserole all in one pot.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when dicing shallots, celery, and apples for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

Chicken braised in apple cider with thyme and apples.

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 Turkey Bacon lardons (or 6 strips of Turkey 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

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Turn the oven on to 180C/350F.
2. Pat dry chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel. Season generously with salt.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. In a large casserole dish, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken parts. Cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Remove the browned chicken from the dish and set it aside on a platter.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. In the same pan, add the Turkey Bacon lardons over medium heat.
2. Fry until the fat is rendered. If too fatty, discard most of the rendered fat.
3. Set aside cooked Turkey Bacon with the browned chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Shallots & Celery

1. Add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme into the pan.
2. Cook on low heat until soft but not colored (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds while stirring.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. Pour in apple juice while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Add flour; stir until combined into a paste.
3. Gradually add chicken stock; stir until thickened like gravy.
4. Pour in apple cider; mix well before returning chicken and Turkey Bacon to the casserole dish with remaining thyme sprigs.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with a lid; place in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, uncover and bake for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Apple Wedges

1. While baking, fry apple wedges in reserved fat or butter until lightly browned; watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 8: Finish & Serve

1. After baking, stir heavy cream into casserole; bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes.
2. Gently fold in cooked apple wedges before serving alongside rice or potatoes.

Enjoy this comforting French Chicken Casserole a la Normande as a hearty meal perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Serving French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a comforting meal. This delicious dish pairs well with various sides that complement its creamy, apple-infused essence.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or rustic loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Over Rice

• Serve the casserole over fluffy white rice to absorb the delicious gravy and provide a satisfying base.

Accompanied by Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent choice. Their smooth texture balances the hearty chicken and sauce.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli add a fresh element to your meal, providing color and nutrition.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and is packed with protein, making it a nutritious alternative to traditional sides.

Paired with a Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

How to Perfect French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

To elevate your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, consider these helpful tips for perfecting each bite.

• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh thyme enhances the aromatic qualities of the dish. Add more during cooking for an extra punch of flavor.

• Choose Quality Chicken – Opt for organic or free-range chicken for improved taste and texture in your casserole.

• Sear Well – Ensure you brown the chicken properly before braising. This step adds depth and complexity to the final dish.

• Balance Flavors – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and sweetness from apples to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

• Allow Resting Time – Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

• Experiment with Apples – Different apple varieties can change the sweetness and acidity levels. Try Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Enhance your meal with these delightful side dishes that pair beautifully with French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are flavored with garlic and herbs.

2. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.

3. Braised Green Beans – Tender green beans cooked in olive oil with garlic offer a vibrant color and crunchy texture alongside the dish.

4. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts – Sweet and savory Brussels sprouts add depth to your plate while providing seasonal flair.

5. Spinach Salad – A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts and vinaigrette brings brightness to balance out the heavy casserole.

6. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots bring a lovely natural sweetness that pairs nicely with savory chicken flavors.

7. Creamy Polenta – Soft polenta infused with parmesan provides a comforting base that absorbs all those amazing juices from the casserole.

8. Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy, zucchini noodles are an excellent low-carb option that won’t weigh you down after enjoying this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Skipping browning: Failing to brown the chicken properly will result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to achieve a golden crust for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking apples: Adding apple wedges too early can turn them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for a delightful texture.
• Ignoring gravy thickness: If your sauce is too thin, it may not cling well to the chicken. Ensure you let it cook until it thickens properly.
• Neglecting cream incorporation: Stirring in heavy cream too late might prevent it from blending well into the dish. Add it after removing from the oven for creamy richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.

What is French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a rich and creamy dish featuring chicken cooked with apples and thyme, often served with rice or potatoes.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for other meats?

Yes! You can use chicken breasts or even turkey as alternatives while maintaining similar flavors.

How do I make this casserole dairy-free?

To make your casserole dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme adds wonderful flavor. Use about three times more fresh herbs than dried for best results.

How long does it take to prepare French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

The total time is around 100 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Try this comforting dish at your next family dinner!

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French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: Approximately six servings 1x

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Description

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a heartwarming dish that brings the flavors of tender chicken, sweet apples, and aromatic thyme together in perfect harmony. This comforting casserole is ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a delightful blend of savory and sweet notes. Infused with apple juice and complemented by a creamy sauce, it pairs beautifully with rice or potatoes, making it a complete meal that will impress your guests. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic French recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• Salt
• 4 shallots (diced) or one medium onion
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 4–5 sprigs thyme
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 strips turkey bacon (chopped)
• 2 tbsp apple juice
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/3 cup chicken stock
• 2 apples (peeled, cored, cut into wedges)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Pat dry chicken and season with salt.
2. Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium-high heat; brown the chicken on all sides, then set aside.
3. In the same dish, cook chopped turkey bacon until crispy. Add shallots and celery; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Pour in apple juice and scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan.
5. Mix in flour to form a paste, then gradually add chicken stock until thickened. Incorporate apple cider and return chicken to the dish with thyme sprigs.
6. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 30 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, sauté apple wedges until lightly browned in reserved fat or butter.
8. Stir heavy cream into casserole after baking; fold in cooked apple wedges before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 100 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 150mg