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French Onion Chicken Thighs

French Onion Chicken Thighs: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

One-Pan French Onion Chicken Thighs offer rich flavors and comforting warmth, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Ensure the skin is crispy for the best texture.
For the Onion Gravy
  • 3 large yellow onions Vidalia or sweet onions can be substituted.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Vegetable oil can be substituted.
  • 1 tbsp butter Vegans can use vegan butter or omit.
  • 1 cup beef broth Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine Can be replaced with more broth and a splash of vinegar.
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves Dried thyme can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 bay leaf Remove before serving.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese Swiss cheese can be substituted.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • Black pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and season chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear for another 3 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter and onions. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until caramelized brown.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and thyme, cook for 1 minute. Add white wine, deglaze pan and simmer until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add beef broth and bay leaf, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  6. Return chicken to skillet, skin-side up. Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Broil for 2-3 minutes until Gruyère cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, discard bay leaf, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Pat chicken dry for crispy skin. Don't skip the wine for added complexity in flavor. Cook onions low and slow for best results.

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