Chicken casserole enthusiasts will adore French Chicken Casserole a la Normande. This dish features succulent chicken braised in apple cider, infused with thyme and complemented by sweet apples. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, showcasing the rich flavors of French cuisine. The unique combination of ingredients makes this casserole not only hearty but also a delightful experience for the taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Profile: The mixture of apple cider, thyme, and cream creates a deep and satisfying taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is suitable even for novice cooks.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits right in.
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is warm and filling, ideal for chilly evenings.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large casserole dish
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large casserole dish: Ideal for oven cooking; it holds all ingredients together for even cooking.
- Skillet or frying pan: Necessary for browning chicken and rendering bacon fat, adding depth to the flavor.
- Wooden spatula: Helps in scraping the bottom of the pan while preventing scratches on 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 bacon lardons (or 6 strips of 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
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 and sprinkle salt all over.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large casserole dish:
Add 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Brown the chicken parts until golden.
Remove them to a separate platter and set aside. Discard excess fat if desired.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In the same pan:
Fry bacon lardons over medium heat until fat is rendered.
If too fatty, discard most of the fat.
Transfer cooked bacon to the platter with chicken.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
To the same pan:
Add diced shallots, celery, and 2 sprigs of thyme.
Cook over low heat until softened but not colored (5–7 minutes).
Stir in minced garlic for another 30 seconds.
Pour in brandy while scraping the pan’s bottom until alcohol burns off.
Step 5: Create Sauce Base
Next:
Add flour to form a paste with fat.
Slowly incorporate chicken stock until thickened like gravy.
Stir in apple cider; return chicken and bacon along with remaining thyme sprigs. Bring to boil.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place casserole in preheated oven:
Cover and cook for 30 minutes.
Uncover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
While baking:
Fry apple wedges in reserved chicken fat or butter until just tender.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
After baking:
Stir in heavy cream; cook uncovered for another 20 minutes.
Gently mix in cooked apple wedges before serving. Enjoy it with potatoes or rice!
How to Serve French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Rustic Baguette: Serve slices of fresh baguette to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Sourdough: This tangy bread complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Accompany with Seasonal Vegetables
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed beans add a pop of color and crunch.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots bring a delightful contrast to the dish.
Serve with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the rich flavors.
- Apple Walnut Salad: Incorporating apples ties into the dish’s flavors while adding texture.
Add a Side of Rice or Potatoes
- Fluffy Rice: White or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully and adds heartiness.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich mashed potatoes make for an indulgent side that pairs well.
How to Perfect French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
To achieve the best results with your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and good-quality cider will elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Brown the Chicken Properly: Ensuring a golden crust on the chicken enhances taste and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook; adjusting salt and herbs ensures balanced flavors.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit briefly enhances flavor melding.
Best Side Dishes for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Pairing sides with your French Chicken Casserole can take your meal to new heights. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the casserole’s richness.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice tossed with herbs makes for a fragrant addition that soaks up sauce.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a lovely contrast to savory flavors.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts add depth, especially when combined with bacon.
- Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy baked cauliflower dish brings comfort without overshadowing the main course.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers nutrition and balances out the heavier elements on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that ensure the dish turns out perfectly. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the browning process: Failing to brown the chicken adds less flavor. Always brown your chicken well for richer taste.
- Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs can’t replicate the flavor of fresh thyme. Use fresh herbs for a more aromatic casserole.
- Overcooking the apples: Apples can turn mushy if cooked too long. Add them towards the end of cooking for a firmer texture.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make any dish bland. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt before serving.
- Using low-quality cider: The type of cider affects flavor significantly. Choose a good quality dry cider for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.
Freezing French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Best used within 3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
- Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making French Chicken Casserole a la Normande.
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 herbs and apples, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
Can I use different types of chicken?
You can substitute chicken thighs or legs with breasts, but be mindful that they may cook faster than dark meat.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
How do I enhance the flavors in French Chicken Casserole a la Normande?
Consider adding spices like nutmeg or using garlic-infused oil for additional depth and aroma.
Final Thoughts
French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but also versatile. You can tailor it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste. This dish promises comfort and satisfaction, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of French comfort food. This casserole features tender chicken braised in aromatic apple cider, enhanced by fresh thyme and sweet apples, creating a rich flavor profile that warms the soul. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends, this hearty meal showcases the beauty of rustic French cuisine. With straightforward instructions and accessible ingredients, it promises to be a hit at any table. Serve it alongside crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy an elegant yet comforting dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
- 125g bacon lardons
- 4 shallots (or 1 medium onion)
- 2 apples
- 400ml hard dry apple cider
- 85ml chicken stock
- 125ml double cream
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt
- 1 rib celery (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp brandy or whiskey
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt.
- In a large casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, fry bacon until crispy, then add shallots, celery, and thyme; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and brandy, scraping the pan to deglaze.
- Add flour to form a paste; gradually mix in chicken stock and cider until thickened.
- Return chicken and bacon to the pot, bring to a boil, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 30 minutes while sautéing apple wedges until tender.
- Stir in cream, add cooked apple wedges, and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
