French Chicken Casserole and Apples is a cozy, rustic dish combining tender chicken thighs or breasts with sweet apples and a creamy herb sauce. This one-pot recipe brings together comforting French flavors with minimal prep, making it perfect for fall and winter dinners. The apples soften and caramelize as they cook, soaking in the herbaceous, creamy white wine sauce, while the chicken becomes perfectly browned and juicy. Whether you’re serving guests or preparing a hearty family meal, this casserole is a deliciously elegant option.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 shallots, finely sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional; can substitute with broth)
- 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced into wedges
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2:
In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3:
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, then sauté the sliced shallots for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard and thyme.
Step 4:
Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring continuously for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and wine, ensuring no lumps. Add heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 5:
Add sliced apples to the sauce. Sprinkle with apple cider vinegar and sugar. Return chicken to the pan, nestling it among the apples and sauce. Transfer the entire pan to the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Variations
- Cream-Free Version: Omit the heavy cream and use more broth for a lighter, wine-forward sauce.
- Apple Cider Swap: Use apple cider instead of white wine for a sweeter holiday flavor.
- Mushroom Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace apples with cauliflower florets and reduce the flour.
Cooking Note
Ensure the apples are sliced thick enough so they retain their shape while baking. If using chicken breasts, monitor closely to avoid overcooking, as they cook faster than thighs. For best results, use a well-seasoned cast iron or enameled Dutch oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a fall salad with pecans and cranberries makes a lovely companion dish. For a French country dinner feel, pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling apple cider.
Tips
- Always sear chicken skin-side first for crispiness and flavor.
- Use apples that hold shape during cooking (like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn).
- Make ahead and reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
- Deglaze the pan thoroughly after searing to get all the flavorful bits.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for warm fall spice.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
Calories: 490 per serving
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 540mg
(Values estimated based on typical ingredients; exact values may vary.)
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work, but reduce the cooking time by about 10–15 minutes.
What apples work best for this casserole?
- Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn that won’t become mushy during baking.
Can I make this without cream?
- Absolutely. Use additional broth or a splash of milk for a lighter sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
- Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, but the chicken and apples themselves freeze well. Reheat gently over low heat.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
- Simmer uncovered for an extra 5–10 minutes on the stovetop before serving, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
Conclusion
French Chicken Casserole and Apples is a hearty, elegant meal that bridges rustic comfort with festive warmth. The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized apples, and a rich, creamy herb sauce makes it ideal for special dinners or casual Sundays. With its cozy aroma and simple one-pot preparation, this recipe is bound to become a cold-weather favorite in your kitchen.