Elevate your weeknight dinner with our delectable French Onion Chicken Skillet recipe! Combining the rich flavors of caramelized Vidalia onions, tender chicken, and gooey Swiss cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal to enjoy with family or a delicious option to impress guests, this French-inspired skillet recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering 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:
- Preheat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add half of the olive oil.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Add the sliced Vidalia onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried sage.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the remaining oil in the skillet and whisk until smooth, creating a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cooked onions, then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Swiss cheese evenly over the chicken and onions in the skillet.
- Broil Until Bubbly:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve the French Onion Chicken hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sliced portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, Emmental, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
- Add-Ons: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding crispy cooked bacon or sliced mushrooms to the skillet before broiling.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts to increase the fat content. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carb content of the sauce.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure that all other ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Serve the French Onion Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of onion for this recipe? A: While Vidalia onions are recommended for their sweet flavor, you can use yellow onions or Spanish onions as alternatives.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and cook the chicken in advance. Assemble the skillet with the sauce and cheese when ready to serve, then broil until bubbly.
Q: What can I serve with French Onion Chicken? A: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of French Onion Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of our French Onion Chicken Skillet, a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With its tender chicken, caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese, this dish is a true celebration of comfort food at its finest. Whether enjoyed for a cozy weeknight dinner or shared at a special gathering, this French-inspired skillet recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and hearty texture. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor every mouthwatering bite of this delectable dish!
