Contents
Introduction
Crock Pot French Onion Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich onion flavors, and a creamy sauce all cooked slowly to perfection. This recipe combines the classic taste of French onion soup with hearty chicken, making it a great meal for any day of the week. Serve it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 4 pieces
Onions – 2 large, thinly sliced
Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 ounces)
Beef broth – 1 cup
French onion soup mix – 1 packet (1 ounce)
Thyme – 1 teaspoon dried
Bay leaf – 1
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Parsley – for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
Step 2: Add the Soup
Pour the French onion soup over the chicken. Ensure that the chicken is fully submerged for optimal flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the provolone cheese over the chicken and soup mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine it with the soup and cheese mixture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the French onion chicken over your choice of pasta, rice, or bread for a delicious meal.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
Note 2: Soup Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add caramelized onions for extra richness.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
Note 4: Leftovers Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken before placing it in the crock pot helps to lock in moisture and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Layering Ingredients
Properly layering the ingredients in the crock pot ensures even cooking. Start with the chicken, then add the onions, and finally pour any sauces or seasonings on top.
Slow Cooking
Using the slow cook function allows the flavors to meld together while the chicken becomes tender over several hours.
Deglazing the Pan
After searing, deglazing the pan with broth or wine helps to capture those browned bits, adding depth to the sauce.
Using Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, at the end of cooking adds a burst of flavor and a fresh aroma to the dish.
Serving with Cheese
Topping the finished dish with cheese melts and adds a creamy layer that complements the savory elements.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It is recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking and to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
What can I serve with French onion chicken?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
How long does the chicken need to cook in the crock pot?
The chicken should cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your crock pot model.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Gruyère or mozzarella are excellent choices for toppings due to their melting properties and flavor.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot French Onion Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken. It’s an easy meal to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and can be served with various sides to create a satisfying dinner experience. Enjoy the melty cheese and savory onions that elevate this dish, making it a family favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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This creamy and hearty dish features tender beef cooked in a savory mushroom sauce, perfect over egg noodles.
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken
Enjoy a flavorful chicken dish infused with garlic and herbs, served with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Crock Pot Vegetable Soup
A comforting and healthy option, this vegetable-packed soup is perfect for using up leftover vegetables and is great for meal prep.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Tender shredded pork cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce, served on buns or over rice for a delightful meal.
Crock Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
This dish combines chicken with a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce, perfect served over pasta or rice.
