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When we say this French onion chicken skillet is one of the best chicken dinners we’ve ever made, we are not exaggerating. Not even a little bit. For all you French onion soup lovers out there, get ready to have your minds blown; we turned one of our all-time favorite soups into a skillet dinner, adding chicken into the mix for some more protein and to make it a more well-rounded meal.
But other than that, we prepared the onions almost exactly the same way we would to make the soup. Which way is that exactly? Well to start, you’re going to need two pounds of Vidalia onions. We use Vidalias because they caramelize beautifully. They’re a sweeter onion to start, so that means they get even sweeter as they soften – no bitterness here! One thing to keep in mind though is that you do need a little time to dedicate to caramelizing these bad boys. You want to keep your heat relatively low, so the whole process takes 20-30 minutes, depending on how delightfully sweet and soft you want your onions to turn out. Once those are caramelized to perfection, you’ll want to make a nice sauce to coat your chicken and onions, then top it off with cheese, throw it in the oven and let it all cook together until the cheese is deliciously melted and your chicken is cooked through.
This is seriously an outstanding dish. If you’ve got the time to whip it up on a weeknight – we find it relaxing to cook the onions – it’ll blow your family away, otherwise, you’ll be sure to impress any and all guests for whom you make it. Regardless of whether you even like onions (it’s impossible not to like these!), this dish is a certified winner, every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French Onion Chicken Skillet takes the comforting flavors of French onion soup and elevates them into a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and impressive enough for guests. Plus, the combination of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and melted cheese will make your taste buds sing!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large oven-proof skillet or pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Vidalia onions, sliced
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350º F.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-proof pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are softened and caramelized.
- Add the balsamic vinegar to the onions and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are darkened but not burned. Remove the onions from the heat and transfer them to a medium bowl.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and raise the heat to medium-high. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage, then place them in the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the heat and set aside.
- Pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil, scraping up any stuck bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk in the flour, stirring until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Return the chicken and onions to the pan, stir together with the beef gravy, then top with the grated Swiss cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Take your time with the onions. Caramelizing them slowly will bring out their natural sweetness.
- Make sure to sear the chicken well for a flavorful crust.
- If you prefer, use Gruyère cheese for a more traditional French onion flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add some garlic to the onions for extra flavor.
- Try using chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats per serving will vary based on the specific brands and cuts of chicken used. However, this dish is a great source of protein and provides a hearty, satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions and chicken in advance and assemble the dish just before baking.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This French Onion Chicken Skillet is a delightful twist on a classic soup, transformed into a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing your dinner guests. I encourage you to give it a try and share your experiences with us. Bon appétit!
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