Chicken Normandy
Chicken Normandy, or Poulet à la Normande, is a cherished French classic from the Normandy region in northern France. This dish exemplifies the culinary heritage of the area, celebrated for its abundant apple orchards and the renowned Calvados, a distinctive apple brandy. Chicken Normandy is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly marries the region's famous ingredients.This delightful recipe features succulent chicken thighs and legs, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The chicken is simmered to tender perfection with a medley of vegetables including leeks and celery, which add a depth of flavor to the dish. Fresh thyme and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic notes that complement the sweetness of apples, a hallmark of Normandy cuisine.Apples play a starring role in this dish, adding a subtle sweetness and a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and vegetables. The dish, chicken Normandy, is further enriched with apple cider, which enhances the apple flavors and adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness. Chicken stock provides a savory base, ensuring a well-rounded and robust flavor profile.Chicken Normandy is a true testament to the honest, rustic cooking of the Normandy region. It's a dish that brings together the best of local produce and traditional cooking techniques, resulting in a meal that's both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you're enjoying it with family or serving it at a dinner party, Poulet à la Normande is sure to impress with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This dish is perfect for those looking to explore authentic French cuisine and savor the taste of Normandy in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 8 pieces chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 15 g butter diveded into 10 g and 5 g
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 1 large leek, finely sliced
- 3 apples (granny smith), peeled and cored; 2 apples diced and 1 apple cut into slices (each quarter into 3 pieces)
- 3/4 Tbsp dried thyme, or a few sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 Tbsp calvados or other brandy
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 300 ml cider
- 300 ml chicken stock
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and fry on both sides until the skin is crisp and golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken pieces from the skillet and set them aside.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees C.
- Cook the Vegetables and Apples: In the same skillet, add the diced celery and sliced leeks. Gently fry them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the two peeled and diced apples to the skillet along with a sprinkle of dried thyme. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the apples to soften. Once done, remove the vegetable and apple mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 10 grams of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add a splash of Calvados, then pour in the apple cider and chicken stock, stirring well to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to thicken slightly while continuing to stir.
- Combine and Bake: Once the sauce begins to boil, return the vegetable and apple mixture to the skillet, mixing everything together thoroughly. Transfer this mixture into an ovenproof dish, spreading it out evenly. Arrange the reserved chicken pieces on top of the vegetable and apple mixture. Now heat the remaining butter in the skillet and fry the apple pieces on each side for a couple of minutes. Arrange them around the chicken pieces for an extra touch of sweetness and a burst of apple flavor.
- Bake the Dish: Place the ovenproof dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well combined.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and check the seasoning, adjust if necessary. Serve the chicken Normandy hot, accompanied by fresh, crusty bread. The bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious, apple-infused sauce.
- This Chicken Normandy recipe captures the essence of the Normandy region with its tender chicken, sweet apples, and savory vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce. Enjoy this classic French dish as a comforting and satisfying meal.