Savory & Cheesy French Onion Baked Chicken 🧀🍗✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a deliciously cheesy chicken recipe that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with gooey melted cheese, then this French onion baked chicken is exactly what you need. It’s a savory baked chicken dish packed with comforting flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The tender chicken breasts are coated with a flavorful onion mixture, topped with cheese, and baked to perfection. Discover how this savory baked chicken can be a family favorite with its irresistible cheesy topping and savory onion profile.
2. Ingredients for French Onion Baked Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
To really elevate your cheesy chicken recipe, consider adding some chopped fresh parsley or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. For more tips on perfectly baked chicken, visit our tender, juicy baked chicken.
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Savory & Cheesy French Onion Baked Chicken
Preparation of the caramelized onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Add the minced garlic and thyme during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Set aside.
Preparing the chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In an oven-proof skillet or baking dish, place the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Top each chicken breast with the caramelized onions, spreading evenly.
Adding cheese and baking
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the onions and chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet or dish to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Storage Tips for French Onion Baked Chicken
Allow the cooked savory baked chicken to cool to room temperature, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. For best results, reheat without covering to retain the crispy cheese topping.
5. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy French Onion Chicken
This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a more indulgent meal, serve alongside our crispy breakfast potatoes or a hearty creamy ground beef pasta. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an added burst of freshness.
6. FAQs About French Onion Baked Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take about 30-35 minutes to cook through.
What type of cheese works best?
Swiss and Gruyère cheeses melt well and offer that classic savory flavor. However, you can also try mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying savory baked chicken meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions and chicken in advance. Assemble everything and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Just adjust cooking time slightly if chilled before baking.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Upgrade your cooking experience with these essential kitchen tools:
- Non-stick skillet: Perfect for caramelizing onions and searing chicken to give it a beautiful golden finish, ensuring your cheesy chicken recipe turns out perfect.
- Oven-proof baking dish: Keep everything together during baking and make clean-up easier with a durable dish designed for oven use.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring and spreading the caramelized onions evenly over the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cheese grater: Easily grate cheese for the topping, enhancing your cheesy baked chicken experience with fresh, melted cheese.
Investing in quality kitchen tools ensures your savory baked chicken turns out delicious and stress-free every time.
8. Conclusion
With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and cheesy, caramelized onion topping, this French onion baked chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your family meal rotation. It combines savory elements with gooey cheese, creating an irresistible dish that’s easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this cheesy chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Try it today and enjoy the delicious results!
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Savory & Cheesy French Onion Baked Chicken
Discover the irresistibly cheesy and savory French Onion Baked Chicken recipe—a perfect comfort food dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with caramelized onions and melted cheese, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This flavorful baked chicken combines rich caramelized onion sweetness with gooey cheese, delivering a satisfying and family-friendly meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Add the minced garlic and thyme during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In an oven-proof skillet or baking dish, place the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Top each chicken breast with the caramelized onions, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the onions and chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet or dish to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or additional thyme before serving.
- Ensure onions are caramelized slowly to develop deep flavor; rushing may result in less sweet caramelization.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for best texture, avoiding covering to keep the cheese crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing, Caramelizing
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free, Protein-rich
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with caramelized onions and cheese
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
