In the crisp embrace of winter, nothing quite warms the heart like a steaming bowl of French Onion Chicken Soup. It’s not just another soup; this cozy dish combines the luscious richness of caramelized onions with tender chicken, delivering a satisfying blend that feels like a comforting hug. The best part? This recipe serves eight, making it a perfect choice for both intimate dinners and hearty get-togethers. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can savor that delightful homemade flavor even on your busiest days. Each bite offers a blend of flavors that will have you forgetting all about fast food! Are you ready to explore the perfect antidote to those chilly nights? Let’s dive in!
Why Is This Soup So Special?
Comforting, Cozy Experience: This French Onion Chicken Soup invites you to savor the warmth of winter with every spoonful. Hearty and Filling: With chicken and veggies, it’s a meal on its own, perfect for those cold nights. Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers, ideal for those busy days. If you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, try the Slow Cooker Chicken or our delicious Garlic Butter Chicken for variety! Quick to Prepare: Less than 1 hour from start to finish, it’s great for weeknight dinners. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
French Onion Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Yellow Onions – Essential for creating that rich base flavor; consider sweet onions for a milder sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and aids in sautéing the onions; swap it with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
• Dried Thyme – Provides herbal notes; feel free to use fresh thyme if available.
• Dried Bay Leaves – Infuse the soup with extra flavor while cooking; omit if you don’t have any on hand.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; try using table salt cautiously, as it’s saltier.
• Black Pepper – Adds a warm kick; freshly ground black pepper will elevate the flavor.
• Carrots – Contribute natural sweetness and color; parsnips can be a tasty substitute.
• Celery – Adds depth to the soup with classic mirepoix flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances umami and depth; it’s optional but highly recommended.
For the Chicken and Broth
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs – The main protein; thighs offer more moisture while breasts are leaner.
• Dry White Wine – Brightens the flavor profile; in lieu of wine, more broth works wonderfully.
• Dry Sherry – Enhances richness; can be replaced with additional white wine if desired.
• All-Purpose Flour – Used to thicken the soup; gluten-free flour can be an excellent alternative.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Main liquid base for the soup; feel free to swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For Serving
• Baguette – Perfect for toasting and topping with cheese; crusty bread works wonderfully as well.
• Gruyère Cheese – Melts beautifully for that sought-after cheesy toast; Swiss or mozzarella can be used instead.
Now that you have the French Onion Chicken Soup ingredients gathered, let’s explore how to bring this delightful dish to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Onion Chicken Soup
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 sliced yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, deep amber, and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Stir in 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks into the caramelized onions. Increase the heat slightly and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables soften and brighten in color. This will add depth to your French Onion Chicken Soup.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and 1/4 cup of dry sherry, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 2–3 minutes, or until the liquid mostly evaporates. This will enhance the flavor, making your soup even more robust.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. This step helps eliminate the raw flour taste and thickens your French Onion Chicken Soup. You’ll notice the mixture bubbling as it comes together.
Step 5: Add Broth and Chicken
Gradually pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth while stirring to ensure no lumps form. Then, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Toasts
While the soup simmers, slice a baguette into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese. Broil in the oven for 30 seconds to 1 minute until bubbly and golden brown, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Finish the Soup
Remove the chicken from the soup and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Taste and season the French Onion Chicken Soup with additional salt and pepper as needed before serving it up with the cheesy toasts for a delightful, hearty meal.
What to Serve with French Onion Chicken Soup
This delightful blend of flavors deserves complementary dishes that enhance its cozy essence.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Bright and crisp, a garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread adds a satisfying texture while echoing the soup’s rich flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out sweetness, adding vibrant colors and nutrients to your table.
- Cheesy Quiche: A slice of flavorful quiche pairs wonderfully, making your meal feel elegant and indulgent.
- Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: These crisp white wines echo the soup’s wine notes, enhancing its savory aroma and richness.
- Fruit Tart: A light, fruity dessert contrasts the soup’s richness, offering a delightful end to the meal.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, herbed couscous serves as a flavorful side that complements the soup’s heartiness while adding a unique texture.
Each pairing brings its own charm, making your table an inviting place for family and friends this winter!
Expert Tips for the Best French Onion Chicken Soup
- Onion Caramelization: Take your time: Caramelizing onions requires patience; low and slow yields the best flavor without burning. Stir frequently!
- Adjusting Seasoning: Taste as you go: Always adjust salt and pepper at the end; flavors develop as they simmer, so be cautious initially!
- Thickening Tips: Choose wisely: When incorporating flour, cook it for about a minute to avoid a raw taste in your French Onion Chicken Soup.
- Chicken Cooking: Monitor doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for perfect tenderness without overcooking.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment boldly: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheeses or add a dash of balsamic vinegar for unique flavor twists!
French Onion Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Each twist unveils a new layer of deliciousness waiting for you to explore.
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter version; it pairs beautifully with the caramelized onions.
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Beefy Love: Substitute shredded beef for an entirely different, hearty flavor profile; just ensure it’s well-seasoned.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken and broth for chickpeas and vegetable broth for a hearty meatless meal that’s still packed with comfort.
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Balsamic Boost: Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar while the soup simmers can elevate the overall flavor with tangy depth; it’s a delightful surprise!
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Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or cheddar on your toasts for unique flavor combinations that can complement your soup perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat; it’s a simple way to change the soup’s vibe and warm you up even more!
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Root Veggie Upgrade: Throw in parsnips instead of carrots for a earthy, sweet flavor that adds complexity to your soup.
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Crispy Toppings: Top the soup with crispy shallots or fried onions for an extra layer of texture and crunch; the contrast is simply irresistible.
Explore these variations, and don’t forget to pair your French Onion Chicken Soup with a side salad for added freshness! If you try any tasty twists, be sure to share your creations with us.
How to Store and Freeze French Onion Chicken Soup
- Fridge: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to restore consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors intact.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your homemade French Onion Chicken Soup without losing its delightful taste!
Make Ahead Options
These French Onion Chicken Soup preps are perfect for busy weeknights! You can caramelize the onions and prepare the vegetable base up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, the cooked soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To finish, simply reheat until the chicken is thoroughly warmed, shred it, and stir it back in before serving. For the cheesy toasts, prepare them right before serving for that just-broiled crunch your soup deserves. With these make-ahead tips, you’re set for a comforting meal with minimal effort!
French Onion Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for the best flavor in my soup?
Absolutely! Yellow onions are your best bet for the base of this French Onion Chicken Soup due to their natural sweetness and rich flavor when caramelized. If you’d like a milder taste, sweet onions are a fantastic alternative. Just be sure to avoid green onions, as they won’t produce the right depth of flavor you want!
How should I store my leftover French Onion Chicken Soup?
To store your delicious leftovers, simply place the soup in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure you allow it to cool completely before sealing, as this helps maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze French Onion Chicken Soup?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this heartwarming soup for up to 3 months. To do so, ladle the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if my soup turns out too salty?
If you find your French Onion Chicken Soup is a bit too salty, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding a peeled potato to the soup while it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Remove the potato once it’s tender but keep in mind that it may also thicken the soup!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Very much so! You can make your French Onion Chicken Soup gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or even cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the soup to create a slurry, ensuring it thickens smoothly without clumping.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for my pets’ safety?
Absolutely! If you have pets at home, it’s advisable not to use garlic or onions in your soup as they’re toxic to dogs and cats. Instead, you can enhance the flavor with additional herbs like parsley or oregano for a deliciously safe alternative. Enjoy your cooking with peace of mind!
Indulge in Cozy French Onion Chicken Soup Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 sliced yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, deep amber, and fragrant.
- Stir in 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks into the caramelized onions. Increase the heat slightly and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and 1/4 cup of dry sherry, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 2–3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth while stirring. Then, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Slice a baguette into 1-inch pieces and top each slice with a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese. Broil for 30 seconds to 1 minute until bubbly.
- Remove the chicken from the soup and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
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