Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this Chicken French Onion Soup recipe! We've taken the classic French onion soup and given it a healthy, flavorful twist with the addition of tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a sophisticated taste without the fuss. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
This is the key to a truly delicious French onion soup! Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Be patient; the longer you cook them, the sweeter they’ll become. Add the thyme and rosemary during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once the onions are caramelized, add the chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven's broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of baguette and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and enjoy immediately!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't rush the caramelization: Low and slow is the key to perfectly caramelized onions. Be patient and let them cook until deeply golden brown.
- Use good quality broth: The broth forms the base of your soup, so using a flavorful chicken broth will make a big difference.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Just hold off on broiling the cheese until right before serving.
Variations:
- Beef French Onion Soup: Substitute beef broth for chicken broth and add 1 pound of cubed beef stew meat along with the chicken.
- Vegetarian French Onion Soup: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of lentils or other hearty beans for protein.
- Spicy French Onion Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe for chicken French onion soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking, offering a truly memorable dining experience. This healthy meal is sure to become a new family favorite, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Enjoy!