Ultimate French Onion Chicken

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of classic French Onion soup, transformed into a magnificent main course. This incredible French Onion Chicken dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in deeply caramelized onions and a luscious, savory sauce, all crowned with melted, bubbly cheese. It is a comforting meal that brings gourmet appeal to your home kitchen. Elevate your weeknight dinner or weekend gathering with this impressive and easy recipe.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken Recipe

You will adore this French Onion Chicken for many reasons! It expertly captures the essence of French Onion Soup in a hearty, satisfying format.

• Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy juicy chicken bathed in a rich, umami-packed sauce and sweet caramelized onions.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish offers a warm, cheesy hug, perfect for any occasion.
• Simple Skillet-to-Oven Method: Cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this gourmet-looking meal that will wow your family and guests.
• Versatile Pairings: It complements various sides, from mashed potatoes to crusty bread.
• Accessible Ingredients: Create this showstopper with easy-to-find items from your local grocery store.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients for this flavorful French Onion Chicken dish is simple. You likely have many of these staples on hand already. We use a combination of pantry items to build layers of savory flavor, resulting in a truly delicious meal.

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly slice these for quicker cooking.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken thoroughly.
• 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic herbs.
• ½ Tablespoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: For dredging and creating a golden crust.
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Mix into the flour for extra flavor.
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken.
• 1 Tablespoon butter, salted or unsalted: Adds richness to the sear.

For the French Onion Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for caramelizing onions.
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Helps prevent butter from burning.
• 3 yellow onions: Equal to about 1.5 lbs, thinly sliced.
• 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce: Boosts umami and depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Provides a fragrant, earthy note.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic complement to onions and chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon ground sage: Adds a subtle, savory warmth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic flavor.
• ½ cup dry white wine: Such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for deglazing and depth.
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Provides a rich foundation for the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the beef broth with a lighter note.
• 1 beef bouillon cube: Intensifies beefy flavor.
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese: Or Provolone or Gruyère, for topping and melting.

Equipment

You will need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this delicious caramelized onion chicken. A good oven-safe skillet is key for this one-pan recipe.

• Large oven-safe skillet: A cast iron skillet works wonderfully for stovetop searing and oven baking.
• Meat tenderizer or rolling pin: To pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For slicing chicken and onions.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring and scraping up flavorful “fond.”
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Meat thermometer (optional): Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature.

How to Make French Onion Chicken

Creating this flavorful French Onion Chicken is a straightforward process, combining searing, caramelizing, and baking into one delicious meal. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.

Prepare the Chicken

First, prepare your chicken for searing. Cut each large chicken breast into 2-3 thinner slices, then place them between sheets of plastic wrap. Pound the chicken to an even ¼-inch thickness using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. This ensures quick and even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Next, generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. In a shallow dish, combine the flour and shredded Parmesan cheese. Dredge each piece of chicken in this mixture, shaking off any excess. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the dredged chicken for about 3 minutes per side, until a beautiful golden crust forms. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and tent it loosely with foil. It will finish cooking in the oven later.

Caramelize the Onions

The key to a truly fantastic French Onion Chicken lies in perfectly caramelized onions. Understanding the science behind caramelizing onions helps achieve that deep, sweet flavor. Start by slicing your yellow onions into even ¼-inch thick rings. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet you used for the chicken. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned chicken bits, or “fond,” from the bottom of the pan; these bits add immense flavor to your sauce. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and toss them to coat in the butter and oil. Cook the onions for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. Stir in the low sodium soy sauce, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and ground sage. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the onions cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become very soft and translucent. Uncover the skillet, increase the heat to medium, and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and become wonderfully sweet.

Simmer the Sauce

While the onions finish caramelizing, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Add the minced garlic and dry white wine to the caramelized onions in the skillet. Cook, uncovered, until the wine almost completely reduces, which typically takes about 10 minutes. This process deglazes the pan and infuses the onions with a delicate flavor. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and toss to coat the onions and remaining liquid. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. Next, pour in the chicken broth and beef broth, then add the beef bouillon cube. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat once the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Bake to Perfection

Now, it’s time to bring everything together for the final bake. Carefully return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rich, simmering French onion sauce. Ensure the chicken pieces are somewhat submerged in the sauce. Generously top the chicken and sauce with the mozzarella cheese, or your chosen cheese like Provolone or Gruyère. Make sure the cheese covers the chicken well. Transfer the skillet to your preheated 475°F (245°C) oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and turns a lovely golden brown on top. The chicken will finish cooking through during this time, absorbing all the wonderful flavors. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your delicious French Onion Chicken with fresh thyme sprigs before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving perfect French Onion Chicken is simple with a few key techniques. Avoid common pitfalls and enhance your cooking experience with these expert tips.

• Don’t rush the onions. Caramelization takes time, but it builds the essential sweet and savory base for your sauce. Cook them slowly for maximum flavor.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Sear the chicken in batches if necessary. This ensures proper browning instead of steaming.
• Pound chicken evenly. Uniform thickness allows the chicken to cook through simultaneously, preventing dry spots.
• Soy sauce is a secret weapon. It adds a powerful umami punch, deepening the overall flavor profile of your sauce. The Umami Information Center explains this fifth basic taste that enhances savory dishes.
• Control the salt. Use low sodium broths and unsalted butter, then adjust salt to taste at the end.
• Consider Gravy Master (optional). A small dash can deepen the color of your French onion sauce if you prefer a darker hue.
• Adjust searing heat. Keep an eye on the skillet and turn down the heat slightly if the oil smokes too much, or increase it if the pan cools too much.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations

This versatile French-inspired chicken dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and is also great for meal prepping.

Serving Ideas

Serve your cheesy, caramelized onion chicken with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that amazing sauce. Buttered egg noodles or fluffy white rice are also excellent choices. For a complete meal, complement the rich flavors with a simple green salad or roasted green beans. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley adds a beautiful finish.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store any leftover French Onion Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating on the stovetop or in the oven to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Swiss, Provolone, or a blend of Gruyère and Parmesan for topping.
• Wine substitution: If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply substitute the dry white wine with an equal amount of extra chicken broth or even vegetable broth.
• Different cuts of chicken: While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you can easily adapt it for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust searing and baking times as needed for thicker cuts.
• Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the onions during the caramelization phase for an earthy addition.

Nutrition Information

This hearty French Onion Chicken recipe offers a satisfying and balanced meal. Each serving provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle health.

This nutritional breakdown highlights that this comforting chicken meal is rich in important macronutrients and provides a good source of calcium and iron. It is a robust dish perfect for fueling your day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this with other cuts of chicken?

Yes, absolutely! While chicken breasts are specified, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work wonderfully for this French Onion Chicken. You will just need to adjust your searing and baking times slightly to accommodate the thicker cut.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth or vegetable broth are excellent substitutions for dry white wine. They still provide moisture and help deglaze the pan effectively.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare components of this dish in advance. Caramelize the onions and make the sauce ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. Sear the chicken and assemble the dish just before baking for the freshest results.

Conclusion

This French Onion Chicken recipe truly transforms classic flavors into an unforgettable meal. The tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, rich savory sauce, and bubbly melted cheese create a symphony of taste and texture. It is a comforting and surprisingly simple dish that tastes like pure gourmet indulgence. Give this recipe a try and share the deliciousness with your loved ones. Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite!

Ultimate French Onion Chicken

This Ultimate French Onion Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts dredged in a Parmesan-flour mixture, seared to a golden crust, and then baked with a rich, savory caramelized onion sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It's a comforting and flavorful dish inspired by classic French onion soup.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ Tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ cup flour
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese shredded
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon butter salted or unsalted
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 3 yellow onions equal to 1.5 lbs.
• 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon ground sage
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• ½ cup dry white wine like chardonnay or pinot grigio
• 2 Tablespoons flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 beef bouillon
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese provolone or gruyere are great too

Equipment

• Saran wrap
• Meat tenderizer
• Skillet (large, oven-safe)
• Foil
• Silicone spatula
• Oven
• Casserole dish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Slice chicken breasts into thinner pieces, then pound them to 1/4 inch thickness between saran wrap using a meat tenderizer.
2. Pat the chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then dredge in a mixture of flour and Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat 3 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 Tbsp. butter over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
4. Remove the seared chicken from the skillet, tent it with foil, and set aside; it will finish cooking in the oven later.
5. Slice the yellow onions into even ¼ inch slices.

Caramelizing Onions and Sauce

1. Melt 2 Tbsp. butter and 1 Tbsp. olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat, using a silicone spatula to scrape up chicken remnants from the bottom.
2. Add the sliced onions, toss to coat, and soften for 5 minutes, then stir in soy sauce, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
3. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the cover, increase heat to medium, and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Preheat your oven to 475 degrees F.
6. Add minced garlic and white wine to the skillet, then cook uncovered for about 10 minutes until the wine is almost completely reduced.
7. Stir in 2 Tbsp. flour, cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour smell disappears.
8. Add chicken broth, beef broth, and beef bouillon, then increase heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, letting it thicken and reduce for 3-5 minutes before removing from heat.

Baking and Serving

1. Return the chicken to the skillet (or transfer to an oven-safe casserole dish), top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 475 degrees F for 15-20 minutes until browned and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve immediately.

Notes

When pounding chicken, use the textured side of the meat tenderizer for efficiency. Adjust heat as needed while searing chicken to prevent burning, adding olive oil if necessary. Slice onions to even ¼ inch slices, not too thin, as they reduce significantly during cooking. A large, oven-safe skillet simplifies the transfer from stovetop to oven.