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; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of France to your kitchen. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:15:39.547Z

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Normandy. With tender chicken, mushrooms, and a luxurious cream sauce, it's a dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops the chicken
Hearty and filling, perfect for colder months
Elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple to prepare

      

A Taste of France at Home

Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande transports you straight to the charming bistros of France. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this dish makes for an excellent weeknight meal or an elegant addition to any dinner party. The combination of sautéed chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce creates an irresistible symphony of taste that will have your family asking for seconds.

What sets this casserole apart is its simplicity. While it boasts a gourmet appeal, the recipe is straightforward enough for even novice cooks. The minimal ingredients come together beautifully, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables to shine. You'll find that this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your soul, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this chicken casserole with a side of crusty French bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, and it adds a delightful texture to the meal. A fresh green salad, lightly dressed with vinaigrette, can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

For wine lovers, a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, complements the flavors beautifully. The wine's acidity balances the creaminess of the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable. Whether it's a family dinner or a festive gathering, these pairings elevate your meal, turning it into a memorable occasion.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the onion and garlic, and slicing the mushrooms. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, stirring well to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet.

Simmer and Serve

Cover the skillet and let the casserole simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. They also provide important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.

The addition of mushrooms not only enhances the flavor but also adds a dose of antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress. Heavy cream contributes to the richness of the dish, but it also provides calcium and fat-soluble vitamins. Enjoying this casserole in moderation can be a delightful way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your diet.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative. This will reduce the calorie count while maintaining a creamy texture.

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Spinach, bell peppers, or even green beans can make fantastic additions, providing extra nutrients and color. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the casserole your unique twist while still preserving its French essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of green vegetables.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.