This holiday season, impress your guests with a comforting and flavorful French Onion Chicken that combines tender chicken breasts with caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese. This dish is perfect for festive gatherings, adding a touch of elegance and warmth to your holiday table!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or more as needed)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 3 ounces Gruyère cheese, coarsely grated (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour mix*)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pepper (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and ¼ teaspoon salt, then increase to medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to brown around the edges.
- Caramelize the Onions: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the onions are very tender and caramelized. If needed, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pan. Set the onions aside and wipe out the skillet.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, a pinch of salt, and paprika.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same large nonstick skillet, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Dredge two chicken cutlets in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Repeat with the remaining butter and chicken.
- Make the Sauce: Combine the chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture and whisk on low heat in the skillet for about 1 minute, until it thickens. Discard the remaining flour mixture.
- Assemble and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet and top with the caramelized onions and grated Gruyère cheese. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the French Onion Chicken, allowing the rich flavors to shine. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Indulge in this delicious French Onion Chicken this holiday season, a cozy and flavorful dish that will surely impress your family and friends! 🎉