This Cheesy French Onion Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the savory essence of French onion soup with juicy chicken cutlets, all topped with melted Swiss and Parmesan cheese. The caramelized onions, rich broth, and cheesy topping make this dish irresistible, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 yellow onions, cut into ¼-inch rings
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup dry rosé or white wine
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oilin a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and stir to coat. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Slowly add the dry rosé or white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
Pour in the beef broth and stir, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is rich and flavorful. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the onion sauce. Place one slice of Swiss cheese on top of each cutlet, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire dish.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-5 minutes over medium-low heat, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden brown top, you can transfer the skillet to the oven under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley (if using) for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve the Cheesy French Onion Chicken hot, spooning the caramelized onions and sauce over the chicken. Pair it with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Notes:
- Onions: The key to perfect caramelized onions is low and slow cooking. Be patient, as rushing the process may cause the onions to burn instead of caramelize.
- Wine: If you don’t have wine on hand or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with additional beef broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Cheese: For a classic French onion flavor, Swiss or Gruyère cheese is ideal, but feel free to use mozzarella or provolone if you prefer a milder flavor.
Variations:
1. Mushroom French Onion Chicken:
Add sliced mushrooms to the onions while caramelizing for a heartier, earthier dish.
2. Creamy French Onion Chicken:
Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream to the beef broth for a richer, creamier sauce.
3. Baked French Onion Chicken:
After cooking the chicken, place everything in a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well. They will require a bit more cooking time—about 6-7 minutes per side.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice to soak up the delicious onion sauce.
Cheesy French Onion Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines juicy chicken, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese in a savory, rich broth. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re craving something hearty yet elegant. The caramelized onions add sweetness, while the beef broth and wine create depth and complexity. Best of all, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough for entertaining. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying and delicious twist on classic French onion flavors
