French Onion Chicken Bake

Introduction: French Onion Chicken Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe features caramelized onions, savory herbs, and a blend of cheeses baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2/3 cup low sodium beef broth
• 4 onions, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme

Instructions:

Preparing the Onions:

1. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
2. Deglaze the Pan:
   • Pour in the balsamic vinegar and beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Chicken:

3. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Season and Brown the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a separate large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assembly and Baking:

5. Assemble the Dish:
   • Once the chicken is browned, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
6. Add Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the chicken and onions.
7. Bake:
   • Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Onions: For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of different types of onions, such as yellow, red, and sweet onions.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere is a classic choice that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of French onion soup.
• Broth: If you prefer, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and sear the chicken ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold when you put it in the oven.

Q: What should I serve with this dish? A: This French Onion Chicken Bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion: French Onion Chicken Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the best elements of French onion soup and a classic chicken bake. With caramelized onions, melted cheese, and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the rich and savory taste of this delightful dish!