Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Name: Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup apple brandy; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande, a dish that brings the warmth of French cuisine right to your table.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:18:43.510Z

This delightful casserole is inspired by the traditional Normande style of cooking, featuring chicken, creamy sauces, and a hint of apple brandy that elevates the dish to a luxurious level.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken pieces
Deliciously fragrant with a hint of apple brandy
Perfectly paired with crusty bread or fluffy rice

      

A Taste of Normandy

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful homage to the Normandy region of France, where hearty dishes are a staple. The incorporation of apple brandy, a nod to the region's renowned cider production, adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Each bite transports you to a quaint French bistro, making it perfect for both special occasions and cozy family dinners.

The rich, creamy sauce enveloping the tender chicken thighs brings a comforting warmth to the table. This casserole embodies the essence of French cuisine, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Perfect Pairings

When serving this casserole, consider pairing it with a crusty baguette or some fluffy rice. The cream sauce is simply divine when soaked up by warm bread, allowing you to savor every drop. Alternatively, rice serves as a beautiful canvas, soaking up the flavors and providing a satisfying base for the dish.

For a complete meal, a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. Fresh greens and a hint of acidity will complement the creamy sauce, making every bite a well-rounded experience. Don't forget to pour yourself a glass of apple cider or a dry white wine to enhance the culinary journey.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though be mindful to cover it to prevent drying out. A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving will refresh its appearance and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup apple brandy
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and apple brandy. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake the Casserole

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and transfer to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or rice.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy casserole!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. While it won't be as rich, it will still provide a creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can be a great alternative, imparting a slight sweetness that pairs well with the apple brandy.

You can also experiment with different mushrooms; while the recipe calls for sliced mushrooms, feel free to use shiitake or cremini for an earthy flavor. Additionally, if you’re not fond of apple brandy, a splash of white wine can be an excellent substitute, adding acidity and depth to the sauce.

Cooking for a Crowd

This casserole is an excellent choice for feeding a larger group. You can easily double the recipe, using a large baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, checking the chicken for doneness to ensure it cooks through properly.

To make the dish even more festive, consider adding seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas. They not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of the meal. This flexibility allows you to customize the casserole based on what you have on hand or the preferences of your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for apple brandy?

You can use dry white wine or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and then refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.