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Cheesy French Onion Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 88 reviews

Cheesy French Onion Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with rich caramelized onions and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe combines classic French onion flavors with succulent baked chicken, finished with a golden cheese broil and fresh parsley garnish, perfect for a hearty dinner in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 3 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • A pinch crushed chili pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Onion Topping

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a casserole dish with oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to thin them slightly for even cooking. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, crushed chili pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish.
  3. Caramelize onions: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown. When the pan starts to dry, add the chicken broth to deglaze and prevent burning. Continue stirring until onions are richly browned.
  4. Add garlic and cool: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and let the onion mixture cool for 5 minutes.
  5. Assemble and bake: Spoon the caramelized onion mixture over each chicken breast to cover. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  6. Broil for cheese finish: Turn on the broiler and broil the casserole for 2 minutes to brown the cheese slightly and add a golden crust. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and comforting cheesy French onion chicken!

Notes

  • Be careful not to over-salt the chicken because the caramelized onions and cheese add saltiness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when caramelizing the onions.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat covered in the oven or microwave.
  • If you want a crispier cheese topping, broil for an additional minute but watch closely to prevent burning.