Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of France to your table with its rich sauce and tender chicken.
This traditional French casserole is a comforting dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy sauce that envelops every bite
- Hearty and satisfying, great for colder days
- A unique twist on classic chicken dishes
A Taste of France at Home
Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of France. The combination of tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce is reminiscent of the classic dishes found in quaint French bistros. Each bite of this casserole is infused with flavors that evoke warmth and comfort, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
This dish is ideal for those who appreciate the art of French cooking but may not have the time or expertise to create complex recipes. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal without the hassle. Plus, the use of heavy cream and Dijon mustard adds a luxurious touch that elevates the dish to something truly special.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this creamy chicken casserole fits the bill. Its hearty nature makes it an excellent choice for colder days when you crave something warm and filling. The combination of chicken and mushrooms creates a satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table feeling content.
Moreover, this casserole is versatile enough to be paired with various sides. Consider serving it with crusty French bread, a fresh green salad, or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal. The options are endless, allowing you to customize your dining experience to suit any occasion.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
One of the best features of this creamy chicken casserole is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the dish in advance, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or gatherings. Simply follow the steps up to the baking point, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when it’s finally served.
If you want to store leftovers or make a batch for later, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, ensuring you have a delicious meal waiting for you any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet 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 and cooked through.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes.
Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Bake
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken casserole!
Serving Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of the creamy chicken casserole, consider serving it with some fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes. These sides will soak up the delightful sauce, making each bite even more satisfying. Alternatively, a side of crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness.
A light, crisp salad can also balance the richness of the casserole. Opt for a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to brighten the meal and add a refreshing contrast.
Wine Pairing
To enhance your dining experience, pair this dish with a glass of white wine. A Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully, while also providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the casserole. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir can also work well, adding a fruity note to the meal.
When selecting a wine, consider the overall flavors in the dish. A wine with good acidity will help cut through the creaminess, making for a harmonious pairing that elevates the entire meal.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage of your creamy chicken casserole is essential to maintain its flavors and texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid breaking down the sauce.
If you choose to freeze the casserole, it's best to do so before baking. This allows you to enjoy a freshly baked meal later on. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it straight from the fridge, adjusting the baking time as necessary to ensure it's heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande
Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of France to your table with its rich sauce and tender chicken.
Created by: Arielle Baxter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Heat olive oil in a large skillet 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 and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g