Craving something hearty and comforting? This French Onion Chicken Recipe is just the ticket! Imagine juicy chicken breasts smothered in rich, caramelized onions and topped with gooey, melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and will surely impress your family or guests. With a blend of savory flavors, it’s a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this delicious meal!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 chicken breast with onions and cheese):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 40g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
4. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Push onions to the side and add chicken to the skillet.
6. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
8. Top each chicken breast with caramelized onions.
9. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing the onions.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; it enhances the flavor.
– Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
– Avoid overcrowding the skillet to prevent steaming.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
– Season your chicken well to enhance flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use a heavy skillet for better heat distribution.
– Fresh thyme adds a fragrant touch; dried works too.
– For extra richness, add a splash of white wine during cooking.
– Make it a one-pan meal by adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Gouda or provolone would work well as alternatives to Swiss cheese. Each will add a unique flavor to the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and onions ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What sides go well with French Onion Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad to balance the richness.
Is it possible to make this dish low-carb?
Certainly! You can serve the chicken without the bread and choose a low-carb cheese for a keto-friendly option.
Conclusion
This French Onion Chicken Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of French onion soup in a hearty main dish. With its savory ingredients and comforting appeal, it’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
French Onion Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Push onions to the side and add chicken to the skillet.
- Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
- Top each chicken breast with caramelized onions.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
