French Onion Stuffed Chicken
This French Onion Stuffed Chicken recipe combines the beloved flavors of French onion soup with juicy, tender chicken breasts.The dish features chicken stuffed with a mixture of caramelized onions and melty Gruyère cheese, creating a gourmet meal that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for a special dinner or an elevated weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup beef broth optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
Preparing the French Onion Filling
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient – good things take time!
- In the last 5 minutes, add thyme leaves and beef broth (if using) to deglaze the pan and intensify the flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the caramelized onions with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
- The key to perfect caramelized onions is low and slow cooking. Don't rush this step – it's what gives the dish its signature French onion flavor!
Stuffing and Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Don't cut all the way through!
- Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each pocket with the French onion filling, being careful not to overfill.
- Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they're fully cooked!