Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. 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. In the same skillet over medium-high heat (add more olive oil if needed), sear chicken 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 sauce. Spoon some onions over the chicken. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Preheat oven broiler. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over chicken. Broil for 2-3 minutes until melted and bubbly (ensure your skillet is oven-safe; otherwise, transfer to a baking dish).
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with 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.
- Cheese Choices: Gruyère is classic, but Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella work well too.
Variations
1. Mushroom French Onion Chicken
Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the onions halfway through caramelizing.
2. Spicy French Onion Chicken
Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the onions while cooking.
3. 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! Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts, adjusting cooking time as needed.
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 of Time?
Prepare the onion sauce ahead (up to 2 days in the fridge). Reheat and continue with the recipe when ready.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy French Onion Chicken! Let us know in the comments how it turned out!
ADVERTISEMENT
