Exquisite French Chicken Casserole à la Normande Recipe

Name: French Chicken Casserole à la Normande
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 8 oz fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp agar-agar powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 20, 2025

by Victoria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This French Chicken Casserole à la Normande offers a delightful mix of flavors that can brighten any dinner table.
It’s easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with loved ones.
The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and mushrooms creates a visually appealing dish that’s equally delicious.
Versatile enough for weeknights or special occasions, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients for French Chicken Casserole à la Normande

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but feel free to use breasts if that’s your style.
Fresh Mushrooms: Choose your favorite variety—button, cremini, or shiitake—all add great flavor.
Onions: A medium-sized onion will bring sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for an aromatic kick; about three should do the trick!
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish.

For the Sauce:

Coconut Milk: This gives the casserole its creamy texture without dairy; choose full-fat for richness.
Dijon Mustard: Just a touch adds tanginess and depth of flavor; it’s what makes this dish sing!
Agar-Agar Powder: Use this plant-based gelling agent to thicken the sauce without animal products.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make French Chicken Casserole à la Normande

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray—let’s avoid any sticky situations!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add boneless chicken thighs to the skillet. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides—about five minutes per side should do it.

Step 4: Add Mushrooms

Toss in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning beautifully—a few more minutes will do!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and agar-agar powder. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken and mushrooms in the skillet.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Transfer everything to your greased baking dish. Cover it tightly with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last ten minutes for a slight golden finish on top.

Serve with crusty bread or over rice for maximum enjoyment! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you have yourself an irresistible French Chicken Casserole à la Normande that’s not only easy but also packed with flavor! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those cherished moments around the dinner table. pancake sausage casserole.

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by searing the chicken to lock in those delectable juices, then while it’s sizzling away, prepare your creamy sauce. Finally, let everything meld together in the oven for a dish that sings with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like mushrooms or peas to give it your own twist. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can add extra depth to the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to maintain that creamy goodness without drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcooking; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Let your casserole rest before serving for better flavors.
Fresh herbs brighten the dish, so add them right before serving!

Sharing this dish at dinner with friends led to raving reviews and a promise to recreate this delightful French Chicken Casserole à la Normande every month!

FAQs:

What is French Chicken Casserole à la Normande?

French Chicken Casserole à la Normande is a delicious, hearty dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce, mushrooms, and apples. This comforting recipe draws inspiration from Normandy’s rich culinary traditions. Caribbean chicken and rice It features simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful casserole, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The dish is often served with crusty bread or rice to soak up the delightful sauce.

How can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?

To make French Chicken Casserole à la Normande suitable for various dietary needs, consider using boneless chicken breast or thighs instead of other meats. You can also substitute heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. Thai chicken meatballs in curry For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free broth and thicken the sauce with cornstarch or arrowroot instead of flour. These modifications will make the dish enjoyable for everyone.

What should I serve with French Chicken Casserole à la Normande?

Pairing options for French Chicken Casserole à la Normande are plentiful. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to absorb the luscious sauce. A fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. crispy feta vinaigrette chicken Additionally, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce and enhancing your dining experience.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, preparing French Chicken Casserole à la Normande in advance is a great idea! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge; it may need an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven.

Conclusion for French Chicken Casserole à la Normande:

In summary, French Chicken Casserole à la Normande is an exquisite dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and delightful flavors inspired by Normandy. It’s versatile enough to accommodate dietary preferences while remaining easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or at a cozy family gathering, this casserole promises satisfaction and comfort in every bite. Embrace this delightful recipe and impress your loved ones!

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