Poulet à la Normande: A French Classic Dish

Introduction

Poulet à la Normande is a classic French dish that combines tender chicken breasts with apples and cream for a deliciously rich and comforting meal. The dish hails from Normandy, a region in northern France known for its creamy, buttery cuisine. Poulet à la Normande is a perfect example of this style of French cooking, and it’s a dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped shallots to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped apples and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by half.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: To make this dish vegetarian/vegan, replace the chicken with seitan or tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Wine Pairing: Poulet à la Normande pairs well with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Gris.
• Side Dishes: This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crusty baguette.

Conclusion

Poulet à la Normande is a classic French dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a fancy dinner party. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apples, and rich cream sauce is simply irresistible. With this recipe, you can easily bring a taste of France to your own kitchen. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What is Poulet à la Normande?

Poulet à la Normande is a French dish made with chicken, apples, cream, and Calvados (apple brandy). It is a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner.

What type of chicken should I use for Poulet à la Normande?

You can use any type of chicken, but we recommend using bone-in chicken thighs or legs for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make Poulet à la Normande without alcohol?

Yes, you can make Poulet à la Normande without alcohol. Simply omit the Calvados and replace it with chicken broth or apple juice.

Can I use a different type of apple for Poulet à la Normande?

Yes, you can use a different type of apple for Poulet à la Normande. However, we recommend using a firm and tart apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I make Poulet à la Normande in advance?

Yes, you can make Poulet à la Normande in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Can I freeze Poulet à la Normande?

Yes, you can freeze Poulet à la Normande. Simply store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it on the stove over low heat.

What should I serve with Poulet à la Normande?

Poulet à la Normande is traditionally served with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A green salad or sautéed vegetables would also be a great side dish.

Can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use sour cream instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce will have a tangy flavor and may not be as rich and creamy.

Can I make Poulet à la Normande in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Poulet à la Normande in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.