French Onion Chicken Bake is a savory and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender, baked chicken. This one-pan meal is known for its depth of flavor, melding sweet caramelized onions, melted cheese, and juicy chicken into a delightful and satisfying entrée.
The dish begins with the preparation of caramelized onions, which is a key component in capturing the essence of French onion soup. Thinly sliced onions are cooked slowly in butter or olive oil over low to medium heat. This process can take upwards of 30 minutes, as the onions gradually turn a deep golden brown, becoming incredibly sweet and tender. The slow caramelization brings out the natural sugars in the onions, creating a rich flavor base for the dish.
To the caramelized onions, garlic is often added for an extra layer of flavor. After the garlic is fragrant, the onions are usually deglazed with a bit of beef broth or wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This liquid not only adds flavor but also creates a sauce in which the chicken will be cooked.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the preferred choice for this dish, known for their tenderness and ability to absorb flavors. The chicken is seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes herbs like thyme or rosemary. It’s then placed in the pan, nestled among the caramelized onions and broth.
The chicken and onions are then topped with cheese before baking. Gruyère or Swiss cheese are popular choices, mimicking the traditional topping of French onion soup. These cheeses are known for their excellent melting qualities and rich flavor. The cheese is generously sprinkled over the chicken and onions, creating a gooey and delicious topping.
The dish is baked in a preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. The baking time varies but typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes.
Once baked, French Onion Chicken Bake is often served with a side of crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The combination of the sweet and savory caramelized onions, the juicy chicken, and the melted cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also offers a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
- 2/3 c Low Sodium Beef Broth
- 4 Onions, peeled and sliced
- 1 c Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- 4 Chicken Breasts, boneless skinless
- 1/2 c Parmesan Cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
How To Make French Onion Chicken Bake
- Prepare the oven and preheat to 200 degrees C or 400 degrees F.
- Apply cooking spray in a baking dish.
- Put a large skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high.
- Add butter and let it melt.
- Add the onions, then sauté for a few minutes until soft.
- Turn the heat to medium-low, then add the garlic, pepper, and thyme. Sauté until aromatic.
- Add the balsamic vinegar and beef broth, then stir until well blended. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to get the browned bits.
- Simmer everything for 10 minutes or until the onions caramelize.
- Add 1/3 of the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Lay the chicken breasts over the onion layer, then season with salt to taste.
- Scatter the rest of the onions over the chicken.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top of the onions.
- Place the baking dish inside the preheated oven and bake everything for about 30 minutes or until done.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes at room temperature.
Serve warm and enjoy!
