French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’ve come to the right place! French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is one of those enchanting recipes that brings a taste of France right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. The aroma of chicken braised in apple cider mingling with thyme and apples will have everyone at the table excited for dinner.

What makes this casserole truly special is how it beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors. Each bite offers tender chicken and juicy apples, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Trust me; this dish will become a family favorite in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The delicious combination of chicken and apples is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Each bite is packed with rich flavors, making it an unforgettable meal.
• Versatile Side Options: Serve with potatoes or rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande:

For the Casserole

• 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 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer, use skinless chicken breasts or even turkey for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate carrots or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a deliciously creamy alternative.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with rosemary or parsley instead of thyme for a different aromatic twist.

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Start by turning your oven on to 180C/350F. Pat the chicken legs and thighs dry with a paper towel, then generously sprinkle salt all over them. This step helps enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, heat up 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken parts and brown them until they are golden on all sides. This step not only adds color but also develops deep flavors. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside on a platter.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Next, add the bacon lardons to the same pan over medium heat. Cook until the fat is rendered out but be mindful not to let it get too crispy; we want that lovely fat for flavor! Once cooked, transfer the bacon onto the same platter as your chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In that delicious bacon fat left in the pan, add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme. Let them cook over low heat until soft but not colored—about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic just long enough to release its amazing aroma.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Once your vegetables are ready, splash in some apple juice while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom of the pan—a little deglazing goes a long way! Afterward, stir in flour until combined into a paste before gradually adding chicken stock to achieve that thick gravy-like consistency. Finally, pour in your apple cider and mix well.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return both the browned chicken and bacon back into your casserole dish along with remaining thyme sprigs. Bring everything to a gentle boil before transitioning it into your preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Cover your casserole dish with a lid and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and let it bake uncovered for another 30 minutes—this allows those beautiful flavors to meld together wonderfully! While it’s baking, fry up those apple wedges in either reserved chicken fat or butter until they’re golden brown.

Step 8: Finish It Off

After an hour has passed in total baking time, take out your casserole from the oven. Now stir in heavy cream followed by cooking uncovered for an additional 20 minutes—this enriches our sauce even further! Lastly, fold in those sautéed apple wedges just before serving alongside fluffy potatoes or rice.

And there you have it—a comforting French Chicken Casserole a la Normande that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Cooking this delightful French dish can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opting for chicken thighs and legs ensures juicy, flavorful meat that holds up beautifully during the braising process. This cut is also more forgiving than chicken breasts, which can dry out easily.

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the chicken and bacon. This step builds a rich flavor base for your casserole. The caramelization adds depth to the dish that you just can’t skip!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme truly shines in this recipe. It enhances the aroma and freshness of the casserole, making every bite feel like a warm hug on a cold day.

• Monitor Your Apples: When frying apple wedges, keep an eye on them to prevent burning. They should be golden and tender but not mushy, adding a lovely texture contrast to the dish.

• Let it Rest: After baking, letting your casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving easier.

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

This comforting casserole deserves to be showcased beautifully at your dining table! Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Green Onions: Adding some sliced green onions can provide a mild crunch and a pop of color that looks appealing against the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These make for an excellent pairing, soaking up all that delicious sauce while providing a smooth texture contrast.

• Steamed Green Beans: Their vibrant color and crispiness add freshness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the casserole wonderfully.

• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce; a fresh baguette adds a classic touch that’s hard to resist.

• Simple Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can offer a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande will not only taste fabulous but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting flavors throughout the week without the daily cooking hassle.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or use a microwave safe dish, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful dish? Here are some common queries!

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

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon or replace it with smoked turkey or a plant-based alternative to maintain that savory flavor.

What can I serve with French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

How long does French Chicken Casserole a la Normande last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and comfort in making this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share delicious moments with loved ones. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!