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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-23T01:48:40.432Z

This creamy casserole brings together tender chicken, mushrooms, and a luxurious sauce, capturing the essence of French cuisine. It's a dish that warms the heart and delights the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
Hearty ingredients that satisfy your cravings
A touch of elegance for everyday meals or special occasions

      

A Classic French Dish

The Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole a la Normande is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of French cuisine. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this casserole brings a taste of Normandy to your dining table. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and elegant.

Traditionally, French casseroles are designed to be hearty and filling, making them perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. This recipe is no exception, as it not only showcases the beauty of French cooking but also highlights the importance of using fresh ingredients. By incorporating seasonal vegetables and high-quality chicken broth, you elevate this dish into something truly memorable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to impress. The rich, creamy sauce coats the chicken, providing both moisture and flavor, ensuring that every bite is delicious. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that is both easy to prepare and elegant enough for entertaining.

The versatility of this dish makes it a favorite among home cooks. You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for another protein. The creamy sauce serves as a perfect base, allowing you to experiment with different flavors while still maintaining the classic French essence.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

To achieve the best results with this casserole, it’s essential to sear the chicken properly. This step not only adds flavor but also helps to lock in the juices, keeping the chicken tender during baking. Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and to develop a beautiful golden crust on the chicken.

Furthermore, don’t rush the sauce-making process. Allowing the cream and broth to simmer together for a few minutes will enhance the flavors, creating a luscious and velvety sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a unique twist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready to create this delicious casserole!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Bake

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Transfer to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of side dish.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken casserole!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic touch, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad can add a light contrast to the richness of the casserole.

If you're looking to enhance the meal further, consider adding a side of crusty French baguette. The bread will not only complement the flavors but also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy chicken. For those who enjoy a little heat, a side of sautéed green beans with garlic can add an exciting flavor dimension.

Storing and Reheating

Storing leftovers from your Creamy French Style Chicken Casserole is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

For best results when reheating, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed thoroughly. If you want to refresh the sauce, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating.

Variations to Try

This recipe is quite versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste preferences. For a heartier version, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots to the casserole. These vegetables will absorb the flavors of the sauce while adding texture and nutrition to the dish.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use low-sodium chicken broth. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to create your own unique twist on this classic French casserole.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad complement this dish beautifully.

→ Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream, but the richness will be less.