French Onion Chicken

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Savor a comforting French classic with this chicken skillet, where golden chicken pieces meet sweetly caramelized onions. The dish is slowly simmered with savory beef broth and finished with a melty layer of Gruyère for extra indulgence. The key is to let the onions turn soft and deeply golden before combining with seared chicken, creating a harmonious depth of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings color and a delicate herbal note to finish. Whether served with crusty bread or over rice, this one-pan wonder combines rustic charm with rich, satisfying taste.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Mon, 28 Jul 2025 22:17:59 GMT
A pan of French onion chicken. Save
A pan of French onion chicken. | lilicooks.com

French onion chicken brings everything comforting about the classic soup and turns it into a satisfying main dish. With tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, gooey Gruyère, and a savory pan sauce, this is my go-to recipe for cozy dinners when I want something special without too much fuss.

The first time I cooked this, the house smelled so good my kids kept sneaking into the kitchen for tastes. Now it’s our top request when we want something comforting but a little elevated.

Ingredients

  • Extra-virgin olive oil: brings richness and helps caramelize the onions Choose a fruity well made oil
  • Large onion: delivers sweet depth as it caramelizes Look for firm onions with shiny skin
  • Freshly chopped thyme: adds that classic French flavor I love how it freshens everything up Use fresh if you can
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: make the flavors pop Grind the pepper yourself for brighter flavor
  • Garlic: offers savory punch Choose plump fresh garlic cloves for best results
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: keep things lean yet juicy Try to get chicken that is air-chilled for better texture
  • Dried oregano: gives subtle earthiness Use a fresh bottle for real aroma
  • All-purpose flour: helps thicken the savory sauce Sift before measuring for a light touch
  • Low-sodium beef broth: creates the classic onion soup flavor Choose a broth you would sip on its own
  • Shredded Gruyère: transforms into a melty topping A wedge you shred yourself has the best flavor and melt
  • Fresh parsley: adds color and a bright finish Grab a bunch with perky leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet add olive oil and thinly sliced onions Sprinkle with salt pepper and thyme Lower heat to medium low and let the onions slowly cook for 25 minutes Stir occasionally until they turn jammy and deep golden brown The process builds the sweet rich backbone for the dish Stir in minced garlic just until it releases its aroma Then transfer this mixture out of the skillet and give the pan a quick wipe
Season the Chicken:
Cut chicken into one inch cubes and place in a large bowl Season all over with salt pepper and oregano Add flour and toss well to make sure every piece gets a light coating This gives the sauce body and helps the chicken brown perfectly
Brown the Chicken:
Return your skillet to medium high and pour in the remaining olive oil Add your chicken Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to really get that golden crust Turn and brown on every side It should take about eight minutes and the chicken will be cooked through or just shy of it
Simmer with Broth and Onions:
Pour in your beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to pull up all the flavorful bits Return your caramelized onions to the pan Stir everything gently Bring to a boil then lower the heat Simmer about ten minutes so the broth reduces to a velvety sauce and infuses the chicken with tons of flavor
Melt the Cheese:
Scatter shredded Gruyère evenly over the skillet Cover with a lid to trap the heat Leave it for two minutes so the cheese melts into every nook and cranny Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley right before serving for a pop of green
French onion chicken in a bowl. Save
French onion chicken in a bowl. | lilicooks.com

My personal favorite part is grating a fresh block of Gruyère Each time the kitchen turns fragrant and everyone gets excited for that cheesy moment I still remember my daughter sneaking the golden bits of onion when I turned my back

Storage Tips

After cooling completely transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate It keeps well for up to three days For longer storage freeze in a freezer safe dish for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating Gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the sauce silky

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Gruyère try Swiss Jarlsberg or even provolone For beef broth use chicken broth if that is what is on hand but the flavor will be less robust Fresh thyme is best but dried thyme works in a pinch Use about a third of the amount Do not skip the onion or swap it for another variety as yellow or sweet onions turn sweetest after caramelizing

French onion chicken in a pan. Save
French onion chicken in a pan. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Pile French onion chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or ribbons of buttered egg noodles It also shines with crusty bread for soaking up every bit of sauce For something lighter serve alongside steamed green beans or a simple leafy salad with mustard vinaigrette

Cultural Context

French onion flavors are beloved in bistros across France It began as a humble peasant dish using slow cooked onions and bits of meat The addition of cheese brings it another step up transforming a classic soup into a hearty comforting meal that works for Sunday suppers or special celebrations

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the secret to caramelizing onions perfectly?

Cook onions slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, to bring out their natural sweetness and achieve a deep golden color without burning.

→ Can I use another cheese instead of Gruyère?

Yes, Swiss or mozzarella makes a good substitute if Gruyère isn’t available. Choose cheeses that melt smoothly for the best results.

→ Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.

→ What sides complement this dish best?

Pair with a crusty baguette, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad to balance the rich flavors.

→ How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth if needed.

French Onion Chicken

Chicken, sweet onions, Gruyère, and beef broth combine for a rich, comforting skillet favorite.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
35 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: French

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
02 1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced
03 2 teaspoons freshly chopped thyme
04 Kosher salt, to taste
05 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
06 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 1 3/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
08 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
09 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
11 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
12 Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add onions and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized and jammy, about 25 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Turn off heat and remove onion mixture. Wipe skillet clean.

Step 02

In a large bowl, season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano, then toss with flour. Heat the remaining olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 8 minutes.

Step 03

Add beef broth to the skillet and return the caramelized onions. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the beef broth reduces slightly, about 10 minutes.

Step 04

Add shredded Gruyère cheese and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (Gruyère cheese)
  • Contains gluten (all-purpose flour)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 487
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~