French Onion Chicken Soup

French Onion Chicken Soup is a comforting twist on the classic French onion soup, blending savory flavors of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and a rich broth. Topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for cozy evenings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the richness of French onion soup with tender, juicy chicken.
• Perfect for a comforting dinner, packed with flavor and warmth.
• The cheese-topped crusty bread adds an irresistible finishing touch.
• Great make-ahead recipe that gets even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Onions (yellow or sweet)
• Garlic
• Beef broth (or chicken broth)
• Dry white wine (optional)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Thyme (fresh or dried)
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper
• Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Baguette or crusty bread

Directions

1. Caramelize the onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until deeply caramelized. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
2. Add chicken and seasonings: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot with the caramelized onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Add thyme, bay leaf, and dry white wine (if using), allowing it to simmer for a few minutes to deglaze the pan.
3. Simmer the soup: Pour in the beef (or chicken) broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the soup.
5. Toast the bread: While the soup is simmering, slice the baguette and toast the slices under a broiler or in a toaster oven until crispy.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a toasted baguette slice, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for a few minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour (including onion caramelization and simmering)

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Broth: For a lighter flavor, use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or croutons to top the soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you’re adding the cheesy bread topping, re-toast the bread and melt the cheese under the broiler just before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup (without the bread topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent my onions from burning while caramelizing?

Cook the onions over low to medium heat, stirring often, and be patient. If they start to stick, add a little water to deglaze the pan and prevent burning.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Gruyère or Swiss cheese is traditional, you can use any melty cheese like mozzarella or provolone.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! French Onion Chicken Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.

Is there a substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, simply omit it and use extra broth to deglaze the pan instead.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the topping, and substitute butter with olive oil.

What type of bread is best for the topping?

A crusty baguette works best, but any rustic bread will do. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness to the soup. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the onions before adding the broth, or let the soup simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian version of the soup.

What wine pairs well with French Onion Chicken Soup?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the soup.

Conclusion

French Onion Chicken Soup is a delicious blend of classic French onion flavors with hearty, tender chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner party dish. With variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite! Enjoy the comforting warmth of caramelized onions, savory broth, and cheesy bread all in one dish.

Print