Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized. Add minced garlic and thyme; cook 1-2 minutes more. Transfer onions to a bowl.
Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Add a little more olive oil to the skillet (if needed) over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Return caramelized onions to the skillet. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, remaining salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the onion sauce. Spoon some onions over the chicken. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Preheat broiler. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over chicken. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until melted and bubbly. (Ensure your skillet is oven-safe; otherwise, transfer to a baking dish).
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Cook Notes
- Caramelizing Onions: Patience is key! Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Broiling Tip: Use an oven-safe skillet, or transfer to a baking dish before broiling.
- Cheese Choices: Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella work well too.
Variations
Mushroom French Onion Chicken:
Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the onions halfway through caramelizing.
Spicy French Onion Chicken:
Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the onions while cooking.
Creamy French Onion Chicken:
Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce before adding the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty French bread
- Mashed potatoes (garlic mashed are delicious!)
- Roasted green beans or asparagus
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?
Yes! Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts work well; adjust cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
Can I Make This Ahead?
Prepare the onion sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat before proceeding with the recipe.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy French Onion Chicken! Let us know in the comments how it turned out!
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