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Autumn Chicken and Apple Casserole

This chicken casserole features tender baked chicken combined with sweet apples, fresh sage, and a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and baked until bubbling and golden. The dish has a comforting, rustic appearance with a slightly crisp top and tender filling, showcasing seasonal ingredients in a hearty, baked presentation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs skin on preferred for flavor
  • 2 medium apples cored and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Gruyère work well
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the dish

Equipment

  • Baking dish or casserole dish
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them skin-side down. Sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Arrange the seared chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, with the crispy skin facing up. Surround the chicken with sliced apples and sprinkle chopped sage over the top.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream and shredded cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken, apples, and sage in the baking dish, ensuring everything is coated and the sauce begins to bubble.
  6. Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 35-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, the sauce is bubbling, and the top is lightly golden.
  7. Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly, and the flavors will meld.
  8. Serve the casserole hot, spooning the sweet apples and luscious sauce with the crispy chicken skin on top for a comforting and visually appealing dish.