Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Name: Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 cups of mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1/2 cup of apple cider; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich flavors of France with this Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:42:35.009Z

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious cream and apple cider sauce, delivering a taste of French cuisine right to your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken and vegetables
The perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors
Ideal for cozy family dinners and gatherings

      

A Taste of France

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande captures the essence of French cuisine, showcasing the simple yet luxurious flavors that define it. The combination of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, creates a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Each bite transports you to a quaint bistro in Normandy, where rustic charm meets culinary perfection.

The use of apple cider in the sauce adds a unique twist, balancing the richness of the cream with a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile. This casserole is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this casserole is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an ideal comfort food, while the elegant presentation ensures it can hold its own at a dinner party. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that your guests will rave about.

Additionally, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit your preferences. You can incorporate seasonal vegetables or swap out the chicken for another protein, like turkey or even a vegetarian alternative. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize this dish while still maintaining its delightful French charm.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To elevate this dish further, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the apple cider for a few hours before cooking. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in an even more succulent casserole. Additionally, using a mix of wild mushrooms can enhance the earthy tones of the dish, adding depth and complexity to each bite.

If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess while reducing calories. For those who love spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a delightful kick, making this dish not only comforting but also exciting.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious and hearty casserole.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the apple cider and let it simmer for a few minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and mix well.

Combine and Bake

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Transfer everything to a casserole dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Serve

Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This delicious casserole is best served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To ensure the best flavor and texture, let it cool completely before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To freeze, make sure to cool the dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing drinks with this creamy casserole, a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully. The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of the sauce, enhancing your overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider can mirror the flavors in the dish while providing a refreshing contrast.

For side dishes, consider serving a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Alternatively, roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs can add color and nutrition, making your meal not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Can this casserole be made 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?

This casserole pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.