French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that brings a taste of France into your kitchen, then this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is just what you need! This recipe has become such a favorite in my home because it combines tender chicken with the sweet tang of apples and the aromatic goodness of thyme. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights or when you have family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a hearty meal together.

The best part? This casserole is not just easy to make; it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. I can guarantee that once you try it, you’ll cherish this recipe just like I do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks will shine!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of apple cider and fresh thyme creates a mouthwatering depth of flavor.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this comforting dish.
• Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or quick lunches.
• Wholesome ingredients: Enjoy delicious flavors without sacrificing quality or nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe focuses on fresh flavors that come together beautifully in the oven. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• salt (to taste)
• 4 shallots (diced) or one medium onion
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 4-5 sprigs of thyme
• 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

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer white meat.
• Change up the veggies: Add carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Try different apples: Experiment with tart apples like Granny Smith for a more pronounced flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option without losing creaminess.

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. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt all over them! This step ensures that your chicken browns nicely and enhances its flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces until golden—this process adds depth to the final dish through caramelization. Once browned, remove them to a platter and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In the same pan, fry the bacon lardons over medium heat until they are crispy and their fat has rendered out. If there is too much fat, feel free to discard some. The crispy bits add great flavor!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Now, add the diced shallots and celery along with two sprigs of thyme. Cook over low heat until soft but not colored—about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for about half a minute until fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that make your casserole irresistible!

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Pour in some apple juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up those tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Then sprinkle in flour; this will help thicken your sauce later on. Gradually pour in chicken stock while stirring until smooth—then add apple cider! Return your browned chicken and bacon along with more thyme into this delicious mix.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Cover your casserole with a lid and place it in the preheated oven for about thirty minutes. Afterward, uncover it and let it cook for another thirty minutes so that all those flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 7: Finish with Apples and Cream

While waiting for that heavenly smell to fill your kitchen, fry up those apple wedges in some reserved chicken fat or butter until golden brown—watching carefully so they don’t burn! Once your casserole is out of the oven, stir in heavy cream followed by those cooked apple wedges before serving everything warm over potatoes or rice.

Enjoy every comforting bite of this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Cooking can be a joyous experience, and with these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious casserole that will impress your family and friends.

• Use bone-in chicken parts: Bone-in cuts like thighs and legs help to keep the meat juicy and tender during the cooking process, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• Sauté slowly: Taking your time to sauté the shallots and celery until soft without browning them enhances their sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the casserole.

• Scrape the pan: When adding apple juice to deglaze, make sure to scrape up those brown bits at the bottom of the pan. They packed with flavor that will enrich your sauce significantly.

• Adjust seasoning: Tasting as you go is essential. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, ensuring every bite is just right.

• Let it rest: After taking the casserole out of the oven, allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

This delightful casserole is not only comforting but also visually appealing! Present it in a rustic way that highlights its warm, hearty essence.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings out the herbal notes in the dish.

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a vibrant pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce perfectly, making every bite heavenly.

• Steamed Green Beans: Their crispiness provides a nice contrast to the tender chicken. Plus, they add a lovely green color to your plate!

• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized can add sweetness and earthiness that pairs wonderfully with this dish.

• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs such as dill or parsley offers a light side option that absorbs all those delicious flavors from the casserole.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well-equipped to create an unforgettable dining experience with your French Chicken Casserole à la Normande! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later when you need a comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and legs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What is the best way to serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

This dish is delicious served with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the wonderful sauce.

How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller serving size?

You can easily halve the ingredients for a smaller batch or simply freeze leftovers for another meal.

Can I use other types of apples in this casserole?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work well, any variety you enjoy can be used. Just avoid overly sweet apples as they may alter the flavor balance.

Is French Chicken Casserole a la Normande healthy?

This casserole contains wholesome ingredients like chicken and vegetables. When prepared with moderation, it fits nicely into a balanced diet!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande! It’s not only delicious but also brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether it’s for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!