Indulge in Chicken Normandy: French Apple Cider Delight

Name: Chicken Normandy (French Apple Cider Chicken)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh apple cider; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 medium Granny Smith apples, sliced; 1 large sweet onion, diced; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

October 29, 2025

Updated:

October 29, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Chicken Normandy wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious sauce made with sweet apples and rich cider. It’s a symphony of flavors that invites you to take a seat and indulge. The dish is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your palate, making every bite a little celebration.

Every time I whip up this French Apple Cider Chicken, memories flood back of cozy family dinners where laughter mingled with the scent of spices and sweetness. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to impress at dinner parties. With each forkful, you’re transported to a quaint bistro in the heart of France, savoring the good life while relishing every mouthwatering moment.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful Chicken Normandy offers an effortless way to impress guests while keeping meal prep simple.
The flavor profile combines sweet and savory, creating a deliciously unique dish.
Visually stunning with its golden hues, this meal is sure to be a showstopper on your dinner table.
Versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it adapts beautifully to any setting.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they were practically licking their plates clean and demanding seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 breasts, depending on your crowd size or appetite.
Fresh Garlic: Always pick firm garlic cloves for that robust flavor that brings everything together.
Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider for an authentic taste; it brightens up the whole dish!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; don’t skimp on it unless you want a sad sauce.
Apples: Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast against the sweetness of the cider.
Onions: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully and add depth.
Dijon Mustard: A touch of tanginess from mustard elevates the entire flavor profile.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives an herbaceous aroma that makes your kitchen smell divine.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste but don’t forget these key players!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Chicken Normandy or French Apple Cider Chicken

How to Make Chicken Normandy or French Apple Cider Chicken

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together so you’re ready to go. Chop the garlic and onions finely and slice the apples into wedges.

Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the pan after removing chicken. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3 minutes.

Pour in Apple Cider: Deglaze the pan by pouring in apple cider while scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Add Apples and Cream: Stir in apple wedges along with heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld beautifully for around 10 minutes.

Return Chicken & Finish Cooking: Place chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.

Serve this delectable dish hot over rice or mashed potatoes, drizzled generously with that luscious sauce packed with flavor! Enjoy diving into this delightful feast that feels like a warm hug from France itself!

You Must Know

Chicken Normandy, or French Apple Cider Chicken, is not just a dish; it’s an experience.
The combination of tender chicken and sweet cider creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance.
The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone into the kitchen, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then sauté the onions and apples before adding cider. This method enhances flavors and ensures even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the apples for pears or add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the chicken juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh cider for the best flavor; it makes a world of difference.
Searing the chicken first adds depth and color while preventing dryness.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce; you won’t regret it!

Every time I make Chicken Normandy, my friends rave about it. One even asked if I could cater her wedding—now that’s a compliment worth savoring!

FAQ

What type of chicken works best for Chicken Normandy?

Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicy meat and rich flavor in your dish.

Can I use another type of alcohol instead of cider?

Yes, white wine can be substituted if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

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