This French Onion Chicken Bake combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender, seasoned chicken breasts and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. With the combination of caramelized onions and juicy chicken, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Savory: The combination of French onion soup and melted mozzarella creates a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food: If you love the flavors of French onion soup, you’ll love this comforting chicken bake.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This French Onion Chicken Bake is perfect for anyone who loves rich, savory flavors and easy-to-make meals. Whether you’re a fan of French onion soup or just looking for a comforting chicken dish, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 6 (4oz) chicken breasts, raw
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp butter (light butter made with canola oil recommended)
- 1 small yellow onion, peeled and sliced
- 1 (10oz) can French onion soup (Campbell’s recommended)
- ½ cup fat-free or light mozzarella (reduced-fat mozzarella recommended)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet (cast iron if available)
- Spatula or tongs
- Baking dish (if not using a cast-iron skillet)
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp of light butter. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Once the onions are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Season and Brown the Chicken
While the onions are cooking, season the 6 chicken breasts with ¼ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Turn the heat to medium-high and lightly coat the skillet with cooking spray.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brown them on both sides, cooking for about 5 minutes per side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through.
4. Add the Soup and Onions
Once the chicken is browned, add the sautéed onions back to the skillet. Open the 10oz can of French onion soup and pour it over the chicken and onions. Stir gently to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
5. Bake the Chicken
If using a cast-iron skillet, divide the ½ cup of light mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast. If you’re using a different skillet, transfer the chicken, onions, and sauce to a baking dish before adding the cheese.
Place the skillet (or baking dish) in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the sauce is hot and boiling.
6. Serve
Once the chicken is done baking, remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the chicken hot, with the melted cheese and rich onion sauce draped over the top.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet makes this dish even easier since you can brown the chicken and bake everything in the same pan.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts. Browning them before baking ensures that they stay juicy and tender.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich onion sauce.
