Healthy French Onion Chicken Bake

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Intensity: Moderate

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Caramelize Onions:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of broth to deglaze the pan.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   • Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sear Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish cooking in the oven.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the chicken.
6. Add Broth:
   • Pour the beef broth and chicken broth over the onions and chicken in the baking dish.
7. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese on top of the onions and chicken.
8. Broil:
   • Increase the oven temperature to broil and return the baking dish to the oven. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
10. Serve:
    • Serve the French Onion Chicken Bake with a side of steamed vegetables, a green salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete and healthy meal.

Note: This healthy French Onion Chicken Bake combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with juicy chicken breasts, creating a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for dinner. Enjoy the caramelized onions, melted cheese, and tender chicken in every bite!