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French cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, elegant presentations, and comforting appeal. From delicate pastries to hearty stews, each dish tells a story deeply rooted in tradition and culture. Among these culinary treasures, the French Chicken Casserole à la Normande stands out as a delightful dish that harmoniously blends savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and sweet apples. This casserole not only offers a unique flavor profile but also evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

French Chicken Casserole a la Normande

Discover the comforting delight of French Chicken Casserole à la Normande! This rich dish combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, sweet apples, and aromatic herbs in a creamy sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures for any family gathering. Easy to prepare and bursting with warmth, this casserole is sure to impress. Try this delicious recipe for a memorable meal! #FrenchCuisine #Casserole #ComfortFood #ChickenRecipes #HomeCooking #RecipeOfTheDay #Foodie
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Ingredients
  

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button)

2 apples, cored and sliced (preferably Granny Smith)

1 cup dry white wine

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

Sear the Chicken: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Mushrooms and Apples: Add the sliced mushrooms and apples to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and the apples start to soften.

        Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until reduced slightly.

          Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

            Return Chicken to the Pot: Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.

              Bake the Casserole: If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). If not, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender.

                Optional Cheese Topping: If using Gruyère cheese, sprinkle it on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let it melt and become golden.

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

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6