Why You’ll Love French Onion Chicken Bake Recipe
This dish takes all the savory, cozy flavors of French onion soup and turns them into a hearty chicken bake that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. The garlic-infused mayonnaise ensures each piece stays moist and tender, while the crispy topping adds the perfect contrast. With just a few pantry staples and quick prep time, it’s a winning dinner recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2-1/2 pounds chicken breasts (bone-in or boneless)
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons garlic, chopped
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1 ounce dry onion soup mix (1 envelope)
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1 cup dry breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 450°F and grease a heavy baking sheet with non-stick spray.
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In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the chopped garlic to make a garlic-infused mayo. Set aside.
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In another bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush each piece with the garlic-mayo mixture.
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Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken and gently press it on to form a crust.
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Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
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Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. The temperature will rise to a safe 165°F during this time.
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Serve and enjoy while hot and crispy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 to 45 minutes
Total time: Approximately 50 to 55 minutes
Variations
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Add caramelized onions: Layer caramelized onions over the chicken before baking for extra French onion flavor.
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Use thighs instead of breasts: Boneless skinless thighs work well and tend to stay extra juicy.
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Cheese swap: Try Gruyère or Swiss cheese in place of Parmesan for a more authentic French onion flavor.
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Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mayo mixture.
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Low-carb option: Substitute crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, but note that the breadcrumb topping may not stay as crispy.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F after resting. This guarantees it’s both safe and juicy.
Can I use store-bought fried onions instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, crushed fried onions can be used for a different texture and an extra oniony punch.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze the baked and cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with its topping a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken bake?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad make excellent pairings.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the texture may be slightly different.
How can I make the crust crispier?
Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray the topping with cooking spray before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it’s not. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your onion soup mix is certified gluten-free.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can omit it or replace it with another hard cheese like Romano or Asiago.
Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes, as tenders cook faster.
Conclusion
French Onion Chicken Bake is the perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet flavor, all wrapped up in a simple weeknight recipe. With its crispy topping, juicy chicken, and rich onion-garlic taste, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Make it your own with easy variations and enjoy a satisfying meal any night of the week.
