French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with the sweet notes of apples and the rich flavor of apple cider. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The unique blend of ingredients creates a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet, making it a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Cooking: The combination of apple cider, thyme, and garlic infuses the chicken with rich flavors that enhance every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole impresses everyone at the table.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy and hearty, this dish makes you feel warm inside, ideal for chilly nights.
• Versatile Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers the next day; they taste even better as the flavors meld together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large casserole dish
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• A frying pan
• A spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: Essential for browning and baking your chicken evenly while holding all the flavorful ingredients together.
• Sharp Knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
• Frying Pan: Ideal for rendering bacon fat and sautéing aromatics, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.

Ingredients

For the Chicken 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 Turkey Bacon lardons (or 6 strips of Turkey Bacon, chopped)
• 2 tbsp brandy or whiskey
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Turn the oven on to 180C/350F. Pat dry chicken legs and thighs with a paper towel. Salt all over to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large casserole dish, brown the chicken parts in 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat until golden. Remove them to a separate platter and set aside. Discard any excess fat left in the pan or reserve it for another use if desired.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon

Fry the Turkey Bacon lardons in the same pan over medium heat until they render their fat. If they are very fatty, discard most of it. Remove them to the platter with browned chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced shallots and celery along with 2 sprigs of thyme to the pan. Cook over low heat until soft but not colored for about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 5: Deglaze with Brandy

Pour in brandy while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan with a spatula. Continue cooking until most alcohol evaporates.

Step 6: Make Gravy Base

Stir in flour until combined into a paste. Gradually add chicken stock while stirring until it resembles thick gravy. Pour in apple cider and stir well to combine.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return browned chicken and Turkey Bacon to the casserole dish along with 2-3 sprigs of thyme. Bring this mixture to a boil before transferring it into your preheated oven.

Step 8: Bake Covered Then Uncovered

Cook covered for about 30 minutes. Afterward, uncover and bake for another 30 minutes longer while occasionally checking on it.

Step 9: Fry Apple Wedges

While waiting on the casserole, fry apple wedges in reserved fat or butter until lightly browned but not burnt—watch carefully!

Step 10: Add Cream & Serve

Take out from oven; stir in heavy cream and continue cooking uncovered for an additional 20 minutes. Finally, mix in fried apple wedges before serving with potatoes or rice for an amazing meal!

How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Serving it well can elevate the dining experience and highlight its rich flavors.

With Fresh Herb Garnish

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley over the casserole for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs – Use fresh thyme sprigs as an aromatic garnish to complement the dish.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of freshly baked baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Bread – Offer garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the casserole.

Served with Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh, crunchy texture to balance the richness.
• Roasted Root Vegetables – A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes provides a sweet contrast.

How to Perfect French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

To ensure your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh apples and herbs enhance the flavor profile and overall quality of your dish.
• Brown Chicken Thoroughly – Take your time when browning the chicken; this step adds depth to the sauce through caramelization.
• Adjust Cooking Time – If using larger chicken pieces, increase cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
• Taste Before Serving – Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Pairing side dishes with your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delicious options:

1. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
2. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf complements the dish without overpowering it, providing a nice base.
3. Buttered Noodles – Simple buttered egg noodles add comfort and are easy to prepare alongside the casserole.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out earthy flavors that match wonderfully with chicken.
5. Cauliflower Gratin – A cheesy cauliflower gratin offers indulgence while still keeping it somewhat light.
6. Salad Lyonnaise – A classic French salad with frisée lettuce, crispy bacon, and poached eggs adds freshness and crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor. Always take the time to brown the chicken well before proceeding with the recipe.
• Using low-quality cider: The apple cider significantly impacts the taste. Choose a high-quality hard dry apple cider for the best results.
• Overcooking the apples: Apples should be tender but not mushy. Fry them separately just until they are golden and soft, then add them at the end.
• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is key for enhancing flavors. Ensure you season each layer, from the chicken to the vegetables, for a well-balanced dish.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each oven varies, so keep an eye on your casserole as it cooks. Overcooking can result in dry chicken and unappealing textures.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken stock if necessary to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a comforting dish featuring chicken braised in apple cider with thyme and apples. It’s rich and flavorful, embodying traditional French cuisine.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can substitute with duck or pork for variations on this classic casserole.

How do I customize my French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for additional flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to baking and then refrigerate overnight or freeze it for later use. Just adjust cooking times when reheating.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad also complements it nicely!

Final Thoughts

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for comfort food during chilly evenings or planning a festive meal, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together beautifully!

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French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a comforting French dish that beautifully marries tender chicken with the sweetness of apples and the deep flavor of apple cider. This casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort. The combination of thyme, garlic, and creamy sauce makes every bite delightful. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and impresses guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
• 4 shallots or 1 medium onion
• 125g Turkey Bacon lardons
• 400ml hard dry apple cider
• 2 apples (peeled and cut into wedges)
• 125ml double cream
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180C/350F.
2. Pat chicken dry, season with salt, then brown in olive oil in a large casserole dish.
3. Cook Turkey Bacon in the same pan until crispy; set aside.
4. Sauté shallots and celery until soft, add garlic.
5. Deglaze with brandy, stir in flour, then gradually add chicken stock and apple cider.
6. Return chicken and bacon to the pan; bring to a boil, then bake covered for 30 min followed by uncovered for another 30 min.
7. Fry apple wedges until golden; stir in heavy cream after baking.
8. Serve with fried apples on top.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Adjust cooking time based on chicken piece size. Consider adding vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra depth.