Description
A comforting French Onion Chicken Bake featuring tender seared chicken breasts topped with deeply caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese. This dish combines rich flavors from caramelized onions, white wine, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar, baked to perfection for a cozy and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
Caramelized Onion Mixture
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth (plus splash for onions if needed)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown, adding a splash of water or beef broth if they start to stick.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes to combine and develop flavor.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine and beef broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes until half of the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Preheat and Sear Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the onion mixture from the skillet and set aside. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken breasts 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- Assemble: Arrange the seared chicken breasts in an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Spread the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet or dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- If Gruyère cheese is unavailable, Swiss or mozzarella can be substituted.
- Add a splash of water or broth if onions begin sticking while caramelizing to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- For a dairy-free option, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
