Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of chicken? Look no further than this mouthwatering French Onion Chicken Skillet recipe! Bursting with caramelized onions, tender chicken, and gooey Swiss cheese, this savory skillet meal is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the world of French cuisine and discover the secrets to making this unforgettable dish.
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
Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. Be patient, as this step is crucial for developing deep flavor.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
- While the onions are caramelizing, season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper.
- In a separate skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Making the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions in the skillet and stir to combine.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, and dried sage to the skillet, stirring to incorporate the ingredients.
- Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Assembling the Dish:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce and onions.
- Sprinkle the grated Swiss cheese evenly over the chicken and onions.
- Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serving:
- Serve the French Onion Chicken hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Slow Cooker Option: For an easy hands-off version, you can prepare the caramelized onions and brown the chicken in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Vegetarian Variation: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they have a higher fat content. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to thicken the sauce. Use a sugar-free beef broth and check the labels on the balsamic vinegar and Swiss cheese to ensure they are keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, but you can also reduce the amount of onions used to lower the carb content further. Additionally, you can serve the French Onion Chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional starches for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of cheese instead of Swiss cheese? A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and brown the chicken ahead of time, then assemble the dish just before serving. Alternatively, you can fully cook the dish and reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover French Onion Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
French Onion Chicken Skillet is a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport you to the bistros of Paris with every bite. With its tender chicken, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, this dish is a true celebration of French cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more.
So why not treat yourself to a taste of France tonight with this irresistible French Onion Chicken Skillet? Bon appétit!
