Name: French Onion Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 pounds yellow onions; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 dried bay leaves; 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 medium carrots; 3 medium stalks celery; 3 cloves garlic; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 3/4 cup dry white grape juice; 1 tablespoon dry apple juice; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 baguette; 2 ounces Gruyère cheese (about heaping 1/2 cup)

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If you’re looking for a soup that warms your heart and fills your belly, then let me introduce you to my beloved French Onion Chicken Soup. This cozy dish marries the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken, creating a delightful experience in every bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this comforting soup is sure to become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine.

What makes this recipe truly special is its blend of wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this French Onion Chicken Soup is ready to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Family-friendly: The delicious flavors will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds!
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy the rich flavors developing as it simmers.
Hearty and satisfying: This soup is a complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies all in one pot.
Freezer-friendly: Leftovers can be stored easily for those busy days when you need a quick meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful soup:

For the Soup Base

3 pounds yellow onions (4 large or 6 medium)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 dried bay leaves
2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Veggies

3 medium carrots
3 medium stalks celery
3 cloves garlic

For the Protein and Broth

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3/4 cup dry white grape juice
1 tablespoon dry apple juice
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For Serving

1/2 baguette
2 ounces Gruyère cheese (about heaping 1/2 cup)

Variations

This French Onion Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these simple variations:

Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quick alternative.
Add more veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your soup an exciting kick.
Change the cheese: Try swapping Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella for a different taste profile.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by slicing your onions thinly. In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onions along with thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook them slowly until they turn golden brown and caramelized—this step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Build Flavor with Vegetables and Garlic

Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, add diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. This adds depth and richness to your soup.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Liquids

Next, nestle in your chicken pieces among the veggies. Pour in the dry white grape juice and dry apple juice—these will enhance the flavor without any alcohol. Sprinkle the flour over everything and stir well; this helps thicken your soup as it cooks.

Step 4: Simmer Away!

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth while stirring gently. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve with Toasted Baguette and Cheese

While your soup simmers away, preheat your oven broiler. Slice the baguette into pieces and toast them lightly. Top each slice with grated Gruyère cheese. Once melted and bubbly under the broiler, serve them alongside bowls of warm soup for dipping!

Enjoy each spoonful of this heartwarming French Onion Chicken Soup; it’s not just food—it’s love served warm!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Chicken Soup

Making French Onion Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Take your time with the onions; cooking them slowly over medium heat will develop their natural sweetness and deepen the flavor of your soup.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added near the end of cooking for a vibrant touch. They enhance the overall aroma and bring out the flavors in the broth beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate, ensuring that every spoonful is perfectly seasoned.
Broil for a Perfect Finish: If you’re using cheese on top, broiling it just before serving creates a deliciously gooey layer that adds texture and richness to your soup.
Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together overnight for an irresistible meal.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present your French Onion Chicken Soup beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the soup.
Croutons: Homemade croutons can add an extra crunch. Simply cube some bread, toss with olive oil and herbs, then bake until golden.

Side Dishes

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Choose seasonal greens for added flavor!
Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth. It’s simple to prepare and always a hit!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors of the soup while adding nutrition and color to your meal.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs well with this rich soup. It’s filling yet light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

Enjoy making and sharing your French Onion Chicken Soup with family and friends! Let each bowl warm hearts as much as it warms bellies.

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how you can keep your soup fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results, avoid adding the bread or cheese until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers.
Leave some space at the top of each container for expansion.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To preserve texture, freeze without added bread or cheese.

Reheating

Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Add fresh bread and Gruyère cheese when serving for that deliciously cheesy topping!

FAQs

You might have some questions about making this comforting dish. Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other types of cheese in French Onion Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! While Gruyère adds a classic flavor, you can substitute with Swiss or mozzarella for a different twist. Just make sure it melts well!

How do I make French Onion Chicken Soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken. You can add more hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for added protein.

Can I prepare French Onion Chicken Soup in advance?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time, store leftovers in the fridge, or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What sides pair well with French Onion Chicken Soup?

This soup is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Enjoy it as part of a cozy dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this French Onion Chicken Soup! It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you’re craving something warm and comforting. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends—or savoring it all on your own! Happy cooking!

French Onion Chicken Soup

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: French

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Description

Warm your soul with this delightful French Onion Chicken Soup! This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tender chicken, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you are winding down after a busy day or hosting loved ones, this soup is sure to impress with its hearty texture and depth of flavor. Simple to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for your meal prep needs. Serve it with a toasted baguette topped with melted cheese for an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds yellow onions
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 dried bay leaves
2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 medium carrots
3 medium stalks celery
3 cloves garlic
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3/4 cup dry white grape juice
1 tablespoon dry apple juice
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 baguette
2 ounces Gruyère cheese (about heaping 1/2 cup)

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Instructions

Slice onions thinly and caramelize them in butter over medium heat until golden brown.
Add diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
Nestle in the chicken pieces and pour in dry white grape juice and dry apple juice.
Stir in flour, then add low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil before simmering uncovered for 45 minutes.
Serve with toasted baguette slices topped with melted Gruyère cheese.