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 boneless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 apple, cored and sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:42:44.065Z

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a classic dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, and the bright flavor of apples. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this casserole will transport your taste buds to the heart of France.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor with a hint of apple sweetness
Comforting and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings
Easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for guests

      

A Taste of Normandy

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not just a meal; it's a journey to the enchanting region of Normandy. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich culinary heritage, Normandy inspires this delightful dish. The combination of chicken, cream, and apples encapsulates the essence of French comfort food, making it an instant classic in your kitchen. Each bite offers a taste of the rustic charm that Normandy is famous for, bringing a touch of French elegance to your dinner table.

The use of apples in this casserole is particularly noteworthy. In Normandy, apples are a staple ingredient, often found in both savory and sweet dishes. Their natural sweetness adds a unique depth of flavor to the casserole, balancing the richness of the cream beautifully. This recipe showcases how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable.

Effortless Elegance

One of the greatest appeals of this casserole is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. This makes it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. While it may seem impressive, the recipe is straightforward enough for even novice cooks to tackle with confidence. It's a perfect way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, this casserole is designed for flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different proteins, such as turkey or even a vegetarian option with mushrooms and tofu. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this hearty meal no matter your dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the casserole perfectly. Additionally, a crusty baguette or fluffy mashed potatoes makes for excellent accompaniments, allowing you to soak up the creamy sauce.

For a drink pairing, a light-bodied white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, works beautifully. The wine's acidity will cut through the richness of the dish, elevating the overall meal. Whether for a family gathering or an intimate dinner, these thoughtful touches will elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 apple, cored and sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and apple slices, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your delightful casserole!

Pair this casserole with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, you're in luck! This casserole stores wonderfully and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and ensure it cools completely before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven until warmed through. You might even find that the flavors meld together even more beautifully after a day in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.

Nutritional Insights

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but can also be a wholesome meal option. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, vital for muscle health and maintenance. Adding mushrooms boosts the dish with essential vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and selenium, which play crucial roles in energy metabolism and immune function.

While the heavy cream adds richness, you can opt for lighter alternatives if desired, such as half-and-half or a plant-based cream, to reduce calories without sacrificing too much flavor. The inclusion of apples not only enhances the taste but also adds dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health. This dish can certainly fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole

To achieve the best results with your casserole, ensure that you sear the chicken breasts well before adding them to the sauce. This creates a beautiful golden crust, sealing in the juices and enhancing the overall flavor. Don't rush the process; allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for the recommended time for optimal browning.

Another tip is to allow the casserole to simmer gently after adding the heavy cream and apples. This not only helps meld the flavors together but also ensures the chicken is cooked through without becoming dry. Keep an eye on the heat, as a gentle simmer is key to achieving that creamy, luscious sauce that defines this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken will add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

→ Can I substitute the cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.