Normandy chicken is a classic of French gastronomy that offers a different way of enjoying everyday chicken. The recipe is delicate and creamy, with a gentle aroma vaguely reminiscent of the apple, given by the Calvados brandy. If you want to go further, and you love the combinations of meat and fruit (rather like in Trentino Alto Adige), you could add some slices of rennet apples. If you want to try a different meat, however, this combination is also great with pork, but obviously this would be to deviate from the French tradition.
* approximate values per serving
Fry the chicken without colouring it in a little butter, salt and pepper. Cover the pan and cook the chicken, turning occasionally, for 30 minutes. Whisk the egg yolk with the cream, and then add the Calvados. Sauté the mushrooms in some butter and add them to the pan with the chicken. Cook, covered, for 5 minutes. Place the chicken on a serving plate. Add the cream to the mushroom sauce, heat without boiling, and pour over the meat.
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Melt some butter in a frying pan
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Fry the chicken very gently
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Turn the chicken, add some salt, cover the pan and cook for 30 minutes
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In another frying pan add a little butter
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Cut the mushrooms into pieces
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Cook the mushrooms in the buttered frying pan
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Beat together the egg yolk and the cream
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Add the Calvados
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Mix the sauce together well
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Add the mushrooms to the sauce and the chicken, and heat without boiling
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Serve everything hot
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One of the tastiest variations of Norman Chicken is definitely the one with fresh mushrooms. In this preparation, the mushrooms are sautéed in butter and then added to the chicken during cooking. This step not only enriches the dish with flavors but also gives it a soft and enveloping texture. The mushrooms, with their earthy aroma, blend perfectly with the cream and the liquor, creating a creamy sauce that enhances the chicken. For an optimal result, choose seasonal mushrooms, such as porcini or champignon, to ensure freshness and quality. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, where the taste of the mushrooms marries the chicken in a hug of flavors.
Norman Chicken is a dish that originates from French culinary tradition, particularly from the Normandy region. This traditional variant calls for the use of fresh and genuine ingredients, such as Normandy butter, known for its superior quality. The preparation requires slow and careful cooking, which allows the chicken to absorb the seasonings and maintain a tender texture. Using typical liquors, such as Calvados, can further enrich the dish, making it perfect for an elegant dinner. Served with seasonal side dishes, Norman Chicken represents a delicious way to bring a piece of France to your table.
For those who wish to enjoy Norman Chicken in a lighter version, it can be prepared without cream. In this light variant, the cream is replaced by chicken broth or a sauce based on Greek yogurt, which maintains creaminess without weighing down the dish. This approach not only reduces calories but also makes the recipe healthier, keeping the flavors of the chicken and mushrooms intact. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added to enrich the dish with freshness and aroma. This light version is ideal for those following a controlled diet but who do not want to give up on taste.
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and for the proper functioning of our body. It is rich in B vitamins, particularly B6 and niacin, which support energy metabolism and nervous system health. Additionally, chicken contains minerals such as phosphorus and selenium, important for bone health and immune defenses. On average, a serving of Norman Chicken contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of butter and cream used. By choosing lighter variants, it is possible to further reduce the caloric intake without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing Norman Chicken is possible, but it is important to follow some guidelines to preserve its quality. It is advisable to freeze the chicken after cooking, ensuring that it is completely cooled. It is recommended to portion it into airtight containers or food bags to avoid freezer burn. When you wish to consume it, it is best to thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Once thawed, gently reheat it in a skillet or in the oven, adding a bit of broth or water if necessary to keep the meat tender. Avoid freezing the chicken if it has already been reheated, as this could compromise its food safety.