Chicken baked in a rich French onion flavor is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a touch of savory onion goodness, this casserole is pure comfort food. Each bite is warm, flavorful, and perfectly cheesy, making it a must-try recipe. If you’re looking for something satisfying and packed with flavor, this is definitely a keeper!
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
1 packet French onion soup mix
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. You don’t need to cook them all the way through as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Make the French Onion Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the French onion soup mix, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese into the mixture, mixing until evenly combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour the French onion sauce over the chicken, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for that delicious, bubbly cheese layer.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
Finish and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and discard the foil. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to settle.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip searing the chicken! It helps lock in the juices, keeping the meat moist as it bakes.
Cheese Variety: You can use any cheese you prefer, but a good melting cheese like mozzarella will add a creamy texture to the dish.
Make it a Meal: Serve this casserole with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Side Options: Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Serve Over Rice: Serve the casserole over white or brown rice to absorb the flavorful sauce.
Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread would be perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs would work beautifully in this recipe. They are juicy and flavorful, just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake it the next day. It may take a little extra time in the oven to heat through.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Serving and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Indulge in the richness of this French onion-flavored chicken casserole. It’s easy to make, comforting, and absolutely delicious — the perfect dish to keep on hand for those cozy nights!