Chicken Normandy

The Aroma of Fall on a Plate

Ever had a dish that makes you feel cozy just from the smell? Chicken Normandy is one of those meals that transports you to a quaint French bistro with every savory bite. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken breasts and sweet apples in a soul-warming apple cider sauce, all cooked in just one pan for easy cleanup. Seriously, this is the weeknight dinner of dreams, and it’s bound to steal the spotlight at your next family meal!

Why Make This Recipe

Who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to whip up and leaves you with minimal dishes? This Chicken Normandy comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s both delicious and impressive—your friends and family will think you’ve been slaving over the stove for hours! Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly, so you won’t need to break the bank for a taste of France.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Directions

Let’s get cooking with these easy steps:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced apples, sautéing until softened.
6. Pour in the apple cider, stirring to combine with the onions and apples.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired, alongside some rice or crusty bread.

How to Make Chicken Normandy (Overview)

Picture this: You’re lighting up your kitchen with the tempting scent of sautéing apples and onions. Start by browning the chicken in butter, which gives it an irresistible flavor. Next, toss in those apples and onions to create a fragrant base. Pour in the apple cider, let it bubble, then cook that chicken until it’s juicy and tender. Pro tip: Don’t rush the simmering process—this is where the magic happens!

How to Serve Chicken Normandy

This dish radiates warmth and comfort. Serve it with a side of fluffy rice or a thick slice of crusty bread to soak up that sweet apple cider sauce. The colors will brighten your plate: golden chicken, caramelized apples, and vibrant thyme. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you as they get kissed by the sweet, tangy aroma filling the air. It’s food that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! 🍽️

How to Store Chicken Normandy

Got leftovers? No problem! Chicken Normandy keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Want to keep it longer? Freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Easy peasy!

Tips to Make Chicken Normandy

• Don’t overcook the chicken—you want it juicy, not dry.
• Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; consider adding rosemary or sage for a different twist!
• Slice your apples thin for quicker cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• If you like a kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture.
• Looking for a shortcut? Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch (shh, we won’t tell!).

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian twist or use pork chops if you want to play with different proteins. You can also experiment with different apple varieties—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness—tailoring this dish to your taste!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would add even more flavor and juiciness to this dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. What can I use instead of apple cider?
Try using chicken broth or white wine for a different flavor profile. Just remember to balance it with a bit of sweetness.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything in advance, then just simmer it when you’re ready to eat. It makes for a hassle-free dinner!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Chicken Normandy

Enjoy a cozy weeknight dinner with Chicken Normandy, a delightful dish combining tender chicken breasts and sweet apples in a soul-warming apple cider sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: French

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken breasts Fresh, boneless skinless preferred
• 2 pieces apples, sliced Any variety, Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness
• 1 piece onion, chopped Yellow or sweet onion works well
• 1 cup apple cider Use pure apple cider for the best flavor
• 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing
• Salt and pepper to taste To season chicken
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional) Adds a nice aroma and flavor

Method

 

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced apples, sautéing until softened.
6. Pour in the apple cider, stirring to combine with the onions and apples.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired, alongside some rice or crusty bread.

Notes

For variations, consider swapping chicken for tofu or pork chops. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. Use thin apple slices for faster cooking.