French Onion Chicken Bake

This French Onion Chicken Bake with Melted Gruyere is a comforting dish that brings the soul-warming flavors of a traditional French bistro into your home kitchen. It combines succulent chicken with the rich, deep sweetness of slow-caramelized onions and a golden crust of melted cheese, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner.

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The secret to this dish lies in the patience of caramelizing the onions, allowing their natural sugars to develop into a deep, rich base that perfectly complements the seared chicken. Finished in the oven, the Gruyere melts into every nook and cranny, creating a bubbling topping that is hard to resist.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Onions: 3 large yellow onions (thinly sliced), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 cloves garlic (minced), ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ¼ cup dry white wine (optional), ½ cup beef or chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)
• Topping: 1½ cups (about 150 g) Gruyere cheese (shredded), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, optional)

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, melt butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add sliced onions and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, until onions soften and turn golden, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5

Sprinkle sugar over onions and continue to cook, stirring, until deeply caramelized, about 10 minutes more.

Step 6

Add minced garlic and thyme; cook for 1 minute.

Step 7

Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using), scraping up browned bits, then simmer until liquid reduces by half, about 2 minutes.

Step 8

Stir in broth and simmer for 2 minutes more.

Step 9

Nestle seared chicken breasts into the onion mixture in the skillet. Spoon some onions over the chicken.

Step 10

Sprinkle shredded Gruyere evenly over the chicken and onions.

Step 11

Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and cheese is melted and golden.

Step 12

Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce with the broth when simmering. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) without overcooking, keeping the meat succulent and tender.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If Gruyere is unavailable, you can substitute it with Swiss or Emmental cheese for a similar melting quality and mild flavor. To keep this dish gluten-free, ensure your broth is certified gluten-free and omit any side bread or serve with a gluten-free alternative.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this flavorful chicken bake with crusty French bread to soak up the delicious onion gravy, or plate it over creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal that is perfect for cold evenings.

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Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a special weeknight meal, this French Onion Chicken Bake is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and rich, nostalgic flavors. Enjoy this fusion of French tradition and American comfort!

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I caramelize onions perfectly?

Cook onions slowly over medium-low heat with butter and oil, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and soft, about 30 minutes. Adding a pinch of sugar helps deepen the caramelization.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Gruyere?

Yes, Swiss or Emmental cheese can be good substitutes, providing a similar melt and mild nutty flavor that complements the onions and chicken.

→ Is white wine necessary for the sauce?

White wine adds acidity and depth but is optional. You can skip it or replace it with extra broth for a similar savory base.

→ How do I ensure the chicken remains juicy when baking?

Start by searing the chicken to seal in juices, then bake it nestled in the onion mixture to maintain moisture. Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich chicken and onion topping, helping soak up the flavorful juices.