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French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Savor the Comfort of French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Experience the essence of French cooking with this delightful French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, combining rich flavors in a comforting dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine French
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large heavy-duty casserole dish
  • skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs The dark meat adds extra flavor and tenderness.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for browning the chicken.

For the Aromatics

  • 4 shallots, diced Shallots add a sweeter flavor.
  • 1 rib celery, diced Provides crunch and depth.
  • 4-5 sprigs thyme Fresh thyme adds aroma.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds warmth and depth.

For the Flavor Boost

  • 125 g bacon lardons The smoky flavor complements the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoon brandy or whiskey Enhances overall flavor.

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoon flour Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 85 ml chicken stock Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
  • 400 ml hard dry apple cider Infuses sweetness and acidity.
  • 125 ml double cream Adds richness and creaminess.

For the Apples

  • 2 apples Peeled, cored, and cut into wedges.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Pat dry the chicken thighs and legs, then sprinkle generously with salt.
  • In a casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken.
  • Add bacon lardons and cook until crispy, then set aside.
  • Sauté shallots and celery in the remaining drippings until soft, then add garlic.
  • Deglaze the pan with brandy or whiskey.
  • Sprinkle flour over and whisk in chicken stock, then stir in apple cider.
  • Return chicken and bacon to the casserole and bring to a boil.
  • Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 30 minutes.
  • Sauté apple wedges in reserved chicken fat or butter.
  • Stir in heavy cream, bake uncovered for another 20 minutes.
  • Fold in sautéed apple wedges before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with fluffy potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg
Keyword casserole, chicken, comfort food, Easy Dinner, French Chicken Casserole a la Normande, French cuisine
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