French Onion Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and savory dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful onion filling. Inspired by the classic French onion soup, this recipe features caramelized onions, creamy cheese, and herbs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup Swiss cheese (shredded, or Gruyère for a more authentic flavor)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making French Onion Stuffed Chicken takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Add the minced garlic, thyme, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Chicken Breasts: While the onions are cooling, slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the caramelized onion mixture with the shredded Swiss cheese and softened cream cheese until well mixed.
2. Stuff Chicken: Spoon the filling into each chicken breast pocket, securing with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Sear Chicken: In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. Transfer to Oven: Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken (if used) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of French Onion Stuffed Chicken (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	35g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the stuffing for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

French Onion Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the classic tastes of French onion soup into a hearty chicken meal. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation!