French Onion Chicken

There’s something simply irresistible about the comforting warmth of French Onion Chicken. On chilly evenings, when the world outside feels dreary, I find solace in the kitchen, especially when I can create a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. The blend of tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese evokes memories of cozy family dinners. It’s one of those recipes that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. This is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and savor every delicious bite.

What You Need for French Onion Chicken

The ingredients for French Onion Chicken are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor. The sweetness of the onions, the richness of the butter, and the savory notes from the beef broth combine harmoniously, creating a dish that truly warms the soul.

• 3 large Sweet Onions – Thinly sliced, these are the star of the dish, providing that classic French onion sweetness.
• 6 tablespoons Butter – Essential for caramelizing the onions and adding a rich flavor.
• 14-ounce can Beef Broth – This adds depth and heartiness to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the overall flavor with its unique umami notes.
• 4 chicken breasts – The protein base of this dish, they soak up all the delicious flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil – For cooking the chicken and adding healthy fats.
• 1 teaspoon Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement.
• 1 teaspoon Pepper – Adds a subtle kick.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil – Imparts an aromatic quality.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs – A blend that complements the dish beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious texture.
• 4 slices Provolone cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy layer of flavor.
• 4 slices Swiss cheese – Offers a nutty flavor and melts perfectly.
• 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp and salty note, enhancing the cheesy goodness.
• Chopped fresh parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Cooking Method for French Onion Chicken

Cooking French Onion Chicken is a delightful experience. The process is straightforward, yet the aromas that fill your kitchen are nothing short of magical. It all starts with simple steps that lead to a beautifully satisfying dish. Let’s dive into how to create this masterpiece!

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your French Onion Chicken bakes evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.

2. Place an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Melt it until bubbly, which will be the base for your caramelized onions.

3. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and stir them gently. Cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and beautifully softened. The key here is to develop that rich, caramelized flavor.

4. As the onions cook, sprinkle the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried Italian herbs. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.

5. Once the onions are caramelized, carefully remove them from the skillet and set aside. This creates space for your chicken to sear.

6. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned. After browning, cover them with foil to keep them warm.

7. Return the onions to the skillet and sprinkle them with cornstarch. Stir well to combine, and then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a whisk to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved, creating a smooth sauce.

8. Once the mixture thickens slightly, add the browned chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken to infuse it with flavor.

9. Top each chicken breast with a slice of provolone cheese and a slice of Swiss cheese. This cheesy layer is what takes the dish to the next level!

10. Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beautifully browned, and the chicken is cooked through.

11. Finally, remove the skillet from the oven and spoon the sauce and onions over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Things Worth Knowing

Customization Ideas

Customizing French Onion Chicken can turn this delicious dish into your own signature recipe! Here are some great ideas to consider:

• Experiment with Cheeses: Swap out provolone or Swiss for Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an additional layer of flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the aromatic qualities of the dish.
• Serving Styles: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
• Protein Swaps: Feel free to substitute the chicken with pork chops or turkey cutlets for a different take on the dish.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a little kick!
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for easy reheating.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble it and cover tightly. It can be stored for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serving French Onion Chicken can be as creative as the recipe itself. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Pair with Sides: Roasted vegetables or a creamy potato gratin complement the dish beautifully.
• Casual Dinners: This meal works well for a cozy family dinner, bringing warmth to your table during the winter.
• Lunch Option: Leftover chicken can be added to a salad for a satisfying lunch option.
• Occasional Delight: Perfect for gatherings or special occasions where comfort food is appreciated.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this dish in the colder months when heartwarming meals are in demand.
• Storage Tips: Ensure to store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

French Onion Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of caramelized onions and the richness of cheese, creating a meal that warms the soul. Trying this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create cherished memories around the dinner table. I encourage you to give it a go; you won’t be disappointed!

French Onion Chicken

This French Onion Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken smothered in sweet caramelized onions and gooey cheese. It's an easy weeknight dinner that's sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine French

Servings 4 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 3 large Sweet Onions
• 6 tablespoons Butter
• 14 ounce Beef Broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 pieces Chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 4 slices Provolone cheese
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese
• to taste Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
• Place an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter, melting it until bubbly.
• Add the sliced onions to the skillet and stir. Cook for about 20 to 30 minutes until translucent and softened.
• Sprinkle the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried Italian herbs. Ensure they are evenly coated.
• Once the onions are done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
• Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until nicely browned. Cover with foil to keep warm.
• Return the onions to the skillet and sprinkle with cornstarch. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, whisking until the cornstarch is dissolved.
• Once thickened, add the chicken back to the skillet and spoon sauce over the chicken.
• Top each chicken breast with a slice of provolone cheese and a slice of Swiss cheese.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned.
• Spoon the sauce and onions over the chicken and garnish with parsley.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Keyword cheesy chicken dinner, comfort food, easy chicken recipe, French Onion Chicken

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.