Description
A healthy Mediterranean-inspired one-pan chicken bake featuring caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, and tender chicken breasts. This comforting dish is flavorful, simple to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth (240 ml)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (100g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt and stir every 5 minutes. Caramelize the onions slowly for about 35-40 minutes until deep golden brown and sweet-smelling.
- While the onions caramelize, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the thyme.
- In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed and sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
- In a small bowl, combine the beef broth, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and remaining thyme.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to an oven-safe baking dish. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the chicken. Pour the broth mixture over everything, then sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Do not rush caramelizing the onions to avoid bitterness. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning. Pat chicken dry before searing for a golden crust. Let the bake rest before serving. Use fresh thyme for best flavor. Optionally add a splash of white wine to the broth mixture for extra depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (1
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: French onion chicken bake, healthy chicken recipe, Mediterranean chicken, caramelized onions, one-pan chicken bake, easy chicken dinner