How to prepare it
- Start by spraying the inside of your Crock Pot generously with cooking spray to keep everything from sticking.
- Next, spread the sliced yellow onion evenly on the bottom of the Crock Pot to create a flavorful base.
- Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the onions, ensuring they’re distributed evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and beef broth until it’s nice and smooth.
- Pour this savory soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Cover the Crock Pot and set it to LOW. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 5 hours until it’s tender and bursting with deep flavors.
- After 5 hours, carefully add the provolone cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
- Replace the lid and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle thyme leaves and crispy fried onions evenly on top. Leave the Crock Pot uncovered on LOW for about 10 minutes to warm the fried onions and release the aroma of thyme.
- Serve the French Onion Chicken hot, ideally over cooked noodles or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy this comforting meal!
Best ways to enjoy it
For an unforgettable meal, plate your creamy French Onion Chicken over fluffy rice or al dente noodles to capture every drop of that savory sauce. Add a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad for a well-rounded dinner. You could even whip up some garlic bread to soak up those irresistible flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with mashed potatoes for a hearty twist.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store, let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy them within 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label your containers with dates to keep track!
When reheating, it’s best to do so gently—consider warming it in a saucepan over low heat or microwaving it in short increments, stirring in between until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the Crock Pot.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
- Using a good quality beef broth can significantly enhance the taste of this dish, so choose one you love!
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! You could add in mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or throw in some chopped bell peppers for added color and texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, replace the noodles or rice with steamed cauliflower. Dairy-free? Use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, expect to spend about 5 hours and 15 minutes, mostly hands-off time while the crockpot does its magic.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute in the recipe?
You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade version. For the beef broth, use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
For a gluten-free dish, opt for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your onion soup mix is gluten-free as well.
Now get ready to impress your family with this simple yet scrumptious Crock Pot French Onion Chicken!
