Ingredients
Scale
- 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