FAQ
French Onion Chicken Casserole
Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main Courses
Imagine the rich, tantalizing flavors of classic French onion soup merged beautifully with the heartiness of a baked chicken casserole. This French Onion Chicken Casserole recipe brings together the best of both worlds, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ideal for a cozy family dinner or as a standout dish for your next gathering, this casserole combines succulent chicken, caramelized onions and melty Gruyère cheese, all topped with crusty whole wheat baguette pieces.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Casserole
Making this casserole is a straightforward process that involves a few key cooking techniques:
- Caramelize the Onions: This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of the dish’s flavor. Slowly sauté the onions in light butter until they are golden and soft, then enhance their sweetness with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Prepare the Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken, either shredded or diced. This not only saves time but ensures that your chicken is perfectly tender.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, layer the caramelized onions, chicken, and any additional spices and herbs. Pour in the chicken broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Add Bread and Cheese: Top with pieces of whole wheat baguette and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese for that perfect melty yet crusty top.
- Bake to Perfection: Cook the casserole until it’s bubbling and the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. A quick broil at the end can add an extra dimension of texture and color.
Following a Nutrisystem program? Count each serving of this recipe as one SmartCarb, two PowerFuels and one Extra
Customize It to Make It Your Own
This French Onion Chicken Casserole is wonderfully adaptable to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are a few customization ideas:
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or firm tofu to cater to vegetarian diets without sacrificing the essence of the dish.
- Cheese Varieties: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as sharp cheddar for a bolder taste or mozzarella for a milder, gooier finish.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers or spinach to add nutritional value and vibrant colors to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French Onion Chicken Casserole with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots or a crisp garden salad to create a balanced and visually appealing plate. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir pairs beautifully, enhancing the rich flavors of the casserole.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the aroma of caramelized onions and bubbling cheese, and get ready to add this recipe to your list of favorites. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight, this French Onion Chicken Casserole promises to deliver both satisfaction and smiles.
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 362
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, 2 PowerFuels and 1 Extra
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp. light butter
- 1 large sweet or Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
- 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme
- ½ tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 1 lbs cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 8 slices of whole wheat baguette, broken into pieces
- 1 cup gruyere cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 15 minutes, frequently stirring or turning, until the onions become soft, golden and caramelized.
- Add the balsamic, garlic, thyme, paprika and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour into a baking dish along with the chicken and broth.
- Top with baguette pieces and cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted. Broil for a few minutes to brown the cheese.
