Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Name: Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200g mushrooms, sliced; 2 apples, peeled and diced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this delightful Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande, featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms and apples. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2025-12-23T06:27:46.082Z

This creamy casserole is inspired by the traditional French dish that highlights the flavors of Normandy. The combination of chicken, apples, and a luscious cream sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops the chicken perfectly
A delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors from apples and mushrooms
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is the epitome of comfort food. With its tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, it provides warmth and satisfaction in every bite. The combination of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet apples creates a harmonious blend that is sure to please your palate. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this dish radiates a feeling of home and hospitality.

Not only is this casserole comforting, but it also offers a delightful presentation. The contrast of the golden-brown chicken against the creamy sauce and colorful apples makes it visually appealing. Serve it in a rustic casserole dish, and you’ll impress your guests with both the aroma and the appearance. This dish is as lovely to look at as it is to eat!

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best aspects of this creamy casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal availability. For instance, feel free to replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Additionally, different types of apples can be used; tart varieties like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the richness of the cream.

You can also add your favorite vegetables to enhance the nutritional profile. Carrots, spinach, or even green beans can be incorporated for added color and texture. This recipe allows for creativity, making it a canvas for your culinary imagination while still delivering a classic French flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole, consider side dishes that enhance the meal's overall harmony. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. You could also serve it with crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

For a more hearty meal, pair the casserole with buttery mashed potatoes or a side of creamy polenta. These sides not only absorb the flavorful sauce but also add to the comforting experience of the dish. Whatever you choose to serve alongside, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your table!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
200g mushrooms, sliced
2 apples, peeled and diced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced apples and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Bake the Casserole

Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and transfer to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious creamy casserole with crusty bread or over rice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at a low temperature or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or unexpected guests!

Nutritional Information

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole provides a well-rounded meal, combining protein from the chicken with healthy fats from the cream. The addition of mushrooms and apples not only contributes to the flavor but also adds essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving offers a comforting balance of nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for dinner.

However, it's important to enjoy this dish in moderation, as it is rich in calories due to the cream and olive oil. Pairing it with lighter sides, like salads or steamed vegetables, can help create a balanced meal while still indulging in its creamy goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Serve it with a side of green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container.