Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly quick to make? Look no further! This recipe elevates the classic combination of chicken and French onion soup mix into a delicious and satisfying dinner. Using Campbell’s French Onion Soup mix as a base, we'll create a simple yet impressive dish perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. This recipe offers a healthy meal option that’s both easy and delicious, making it one of the best recipes for a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 ounce) Campbell’s French Onion Soup mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (for a more authentic French onion soup experience)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the chicken's flavor.
Step 2: Sautéing the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Simmering the Chicken
Reduce the heat to low. In a bowl, whisk together the Campbell’s French Onion Soup mix, chicken broth, and water until smooth. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Add the dried thyme.
Step 4: Cooking to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The chicken should be tender and easily flake with a fork.
Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Creation
Serve the chicken immediately. You can spoon the delicious French onion soup sauce over the chicken. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle with shredded Gruyere cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful salty and nutty element to the dish.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the chicken uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as sliced onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Creamy French Onion Chicken: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy French Onion Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cheese):
This will vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken breasts and the specific ingredients used. However, a reasonable estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option. Enjoy!