One-Pan French Onion Chicken Recipe
- Jamie Civitano
- Jan 18
- 3 min read
If you want a meal that feels special but comes together quickly, this One-Pan French Onion Chicken fits the bill. It combines golden chicken, deeply caramelized onions, tender mushrooms, and gooey Gruyère cheese—all cooked in a single skillet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
The rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese give this dish a cozy, savory character that makes it feel like a treat. Plus, using just one pan means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
Ingredients
1½ lbs chicken breast or chicken thighs, cubed
2 large onions, thinly sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
1–1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
Optional: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar adds extra depth to the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
Pour in the beef or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds rich flavor to the dish.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer everything together for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 3-4 minutes.
Serve the dish hot, straight from the skillet. For an extra touch, broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden.
Tips for Success
Use chicken thighs if you want juicier meat; breasts work well too if you prefer leaner cuts.
Thinly slicing the onions helps them caramelize evenly and quickly.
Don’t rush the caramelization step—it’s key to developing the deep, sweet flavor that makes this dish special.
If you like a little tang, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar when deglazing the pan.
Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a nutty, creamy finish, but Swiss cheese can be a substitute if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4)
Calories: 420
Protein: 45g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 550mg
This meal offers a solid balance of protein and fat, making it satisfying and filling. The caramelized onions provide natural sweetness and fiber, while mushrooms add extra nutrients and texture.
Why This Recipe Works for Weeknights
This recipe shines because it combines rich, comforting flavors with simplicity. Using one pan means you don’t have to juggle multiple pots or dishes. The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, and the cooking steps are clear and manageable even on busy evenings.
The caramelized onions and melted Gruyère give the dish a restaurant-quality feel without the fuss. It’s a great way to enjoy real, homemade food that feels indulgent but doesn’t take hours to prepare.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan French Onion Chicken is a reliable go-to for anyone who wants a cozy, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, sweet onions, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cheese creates a satisfying meal that feels like a treat any night of the week.
Try this recipe when you want something warm and comforting but don’t have time for complicated cooking. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients and a little patience with caramelizing onions can turn an everyday dinner into something special. Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
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