This French Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a cozy dish that mixes tender chicken with sweet apples and creamy sauce. It’s full of flavor and will make your kitchen smell amazing!
When I make this casserole, my family gathers around the table in no time. The blend of chicken and apples is a tasty surprise and always gets everyone asking for seconds! 🍏🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: These cuts are juicy and flavorful, especially with the skin-on. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breasts, though they may not be as moist. A mix of dark and light meat gives the best results!
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor, but you could substitute it with butter for a richer taste. Coconut oil or avocado oil also work well if you’re looking for something lighter.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for a tart touch, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Feel free to mix different apples or even use pears for a unique flavor twist!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream. Just keep an eye on the flavor balance, as non-dairy options can be sweeter.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have Dijon, you can substitute with yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard for a different texture.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Chicken Skin for Crispiness?
Browning the chicken properly is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crispy skin:
- Start with a hot pan. Preheat your oven-safe casserole dish on medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and wait until it’s shimmering before placing the chicken skin-side down.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; chicken pieces need space to brown properly. Brown them in batches if needed.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove to rest before adding to the casserole.
This technique not only enhances the chicken’s texture but also adds richness to the dish overall. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 4 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take approximately 20 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook in the oven. So, set aside about 1 hour and 5 minutes for the whole process, and get ready to enjoy a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook your chicken perfectly!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe casserole dish, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in the dish, skin-side down, and sear them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re nicely browned. Once browned, flip them over and brown the other side. After that, remove the chicken from the dish and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same dish, add the sliced onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take a couple of minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Apples:
Next, add the sliced apples to the sautéed onions. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the apples start to soften a bit. The sweet and savory combo is amazing!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. Pour this creamy mixture over the apple and onion mixture in the casserole dish.
6. Arrange the Chicken:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Place the browned chicken pieces on top of the creamy apple mixture, skin-side up. This way, the skin will get crispy in the oven.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Put the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the chicken should be fully cooked, and the skin will turn golden and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and sprinkle some fresh thyme on top for a beautiful finish. Serve your French Chicken Casserole a la Normande warm with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a delightful meal. Enjoy!
## FAQ for French Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Boneless cuts will usually cook faster, so check for doneness around 30-35 minutes instead of 45 minutes to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a little cornstarch to thicken it. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well, though it may impart a coconut flavor to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at about 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like carrots, celery, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions to help enhance their taste before adding the liquid ingredients.
