French Chicken Casserole with Creamy Sauce

French Chicken Casserole à la Normande is a delightful one-pot dish that beautifully combines the rich, rustic flavors of Normandy. With tender chicken, sweet apples, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cider-based creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or when you’re craving comforting French cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Layers: The blend of apples, cider, and Dijon mustard creates a unique balance of sweetness, tang, and creaminess.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights.
• Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for fall or winter, showcasing warm, hearty flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Impressive yet Simple: It’s a showstopper that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry apple cider
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pot, melt butter and sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened. Add the apples and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the apple cider to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and thyme. Return the chicken to the pot, skin side up, ensuring it’s partially submerged.
5. Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
6. Finish with Cream: Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts for quicker cooking.
• Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or plant-based protein, and substitute cream with coconut milk.
• Vegetables: Add carrots or parsnips for extra heartiness.
• Alcohol-Free: Substitute apple cider with apple juice and a splash of vinegar.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, seasonal touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point before adding cream. Refrigerate, then reheat and finish with cream before serving.

2. What kind of apples work best?

Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor.

3. Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless chicken thighs or breasts will cook faster, but reduce the cooking time accordingly.

4. What is dry apple cider?

Dry apple cider is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples. Its crisp and slightly tart flavor complements the dish perfectly.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream may change upon reheating. For best results, freeze before adding the cream and add it after reheating.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

7. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, but you may want to omit the cider and substitute it with apple juice for a more family-friendly version.

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

9. What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are great options, but you can also use wild mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

10. Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, after browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, cover and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30–35 minutes.

Conclusion

French Chicken Casserole à la Normande is a timeless recipe that brings a touch of French elegance to your table. Its harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, creamy sauce, and tender chicken make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Try it today and experience a taste of Normandy right in your kitchen!

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