Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Chicken Casserole, also known as “Poulet à la Moutarde” or creamy chicken stew, is a rustic, comforting dish full of rich flavors. With tender chicken braised in a savory white wine and Dijon mustard sauce, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables, this casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant entertaining. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal yet refined enough for a special occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)olive oilbutteryellow oniongarlicclovescarrotscelerymushroomsDijon mustardwhite winechicken broththymebay leafparsleyheavy creamsaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Stir in Dijon mustard and deglaze with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Pour in chicken broth, add thyme and bay leaf, then return the chicken to the pot.

Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Remove from oven and stir in heavy cream. Simmer on the stovetop for 5 more minutes for a rich, creamy finish.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add baby potatoes or pearl onions for more texture and heartiness.

Swap the heavy cream for crème fraîche for a tangier flavor.

Try it with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner version, adjusting cook time accordingly.

Add a splash of brandy or cognac for an extra layer of depth.

Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze the cooled casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Do I have to use wine?

You can substitute with more chicken broth or a mix of broth and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, though bone-in chicken adds more flavor and moisture.

What type of mustard works best?

Dijon mustard is traditional and offers a tangy, smooth finish.

Can I add cheese?

While not traditional, a bit of grated Gruyère can be added before serving for a richer dish.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your mustard and broth are certified gluten-free.

Can I use other herbs?

Yes, rosemary, tarragon, or herbes de Provence work beautifully.

What wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is ideal.

Can I cook it on the stovetop only?

Yes, simmer gently for about 45 minutes covered, then uncover and stir in the cream.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, freeze in portions for quick and easy future meals.

Conclusion

French Chicken Casserole is a warm and satisfying dish that brings the elegance of French cuisine to your dinner table with ease. Its combination of tender chicken, earthy vegetables, and a creamy wine-mustard sauce makes it a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers, this casserole is bound to impress and comfort in every bite.