Easy French Onion Chicken with Gravy

This French Onion Chicken with Gravy is the ultimate comfort dish that combines the cozy flavors of caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and melted cheese. Every bite captures the rich, savory taste of French onion soup, transformed into a hearty skillet meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family dinners. With its velvety gravy and golden cheesy topping, French Onion Chicken with Gravy feels equally special and simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken with Gravy

The beauty of French Onion Chicken with Gravy lies in its deep caramelized flavor and savory richness. Golden onions, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce come together effortlessly. This meal warms the soul, fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and brings classic French inspiration straight to your table. It’s weeknight-friendly yet elegant enough for guests.

Juicy French Onion Chicken with Gravy topped with melted mozzarella in a skillet.
Yan Brodji

French Onion Chicken Gravy

Savory chicken cutlets simmered in rich caramelized onion gravy, topped with melted mozzarella for the ultimate comfort dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 serves
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 412

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 packet beefy onion soup mix
  • 2 tsp seasoned salt
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. Slice each chicken breast into thin cutlets, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and rub into both sides. In a bowl, combine seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Season chicken generously on both sides.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken cutlets 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through to 165°F. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low, add 2 teaspoons olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden.
  4. Sprinkle flour over onions, stirring to coat. Cook 2–3 minutes to remove raw flour taste, then whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soup mix. Simmer until thickened and gravy-like.
  5. Return chicken to skillet, spooning gravy over top. Sprinkle with mozzarella and cover until cheese melts. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 412kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 39gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 128mgSodium: 1380mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 550IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 210mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Caramelizing onions slowly develops deep, rich flavor essential to this dish. Always check ingredients for allergens before cooking.

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Ingredients for French Onion Chicken with Gravy

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon beefy onion soup mix
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone/swiss)
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Black pepper, freshly cracked

Ingredient Notes

  • Cheese Swap: Provolone or Swiss gives a traditional French onion flavor.
  • Broth Options: Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter gravy.
  • Flour Alternative: Gluten-free flour blends work perfectly as a thickener.
  • Chicken Choice: Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier dish.
  • Butter Substitute: Olive oil or vegan butter can replace traditional butter.
skillet for French Onion Chicken with Gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken dry, slice into thin cutlets, and season both sides with olive oil, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper to build layers of flavor before cooking.

Step 2 – Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear the chicken cutlets for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through to 165°F. Remove and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3 – Caramelize the Onions

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil and butter, then stir in the sliced onions. Cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are deep golden brown and beautifully caramelized.

Step 4 – Make the Silky Onion Gravy

Add flour to the caramelized onions and stir well. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes before gradually whisking in the broth, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix. Simmer for several minutes until thickened into a creamy, flavorful gravy.

Step 5 – Combine and Add Cheese

Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the onion gravy. Spoon plenty of the sauce over each piece, sprinkle with shredded cheese, cover, and let it melt into a bubbly blanket of goodness.

onion gravy for the ultimate French Onion Chicken dish.

Pro Tips for Perfect French Onion Chicken with Gravy

  1. Go slow with onions: Caramelization takes time—don’t rush the process.
  2. Even sear: Avoid crowding the skillet to keep chicken golden, not steamed.
  3. Taste as you go: Adjust salt carefully—broth and soup mix add natural saltiness.
  4. Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts silkier and more evenly.
  5. Reheat with care: Add a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.

Flavor Variations

  • Mushroom French Onion Chicken with Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
  • Creamy French Onion Chicken with Gravy: Stir in ¼ cup of light cream before melting cheese.
  • Herbed Version: Top with fresh thyme or parsley right before serving.
  • Sweet & Savory: Mix a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar into the onions for extra depth.
  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper for a gentle warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve French Onion Chicken with Gravy over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed rice to absorb the luxurious sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans for balance. Crusty bread or baguette slices complete the experience—perfect for mopping up every drop of gravy.

melted cheese bubbling over French Onion Chicken with Gravy.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop, adding broth if needed.
  • Freeze: For freezing, skip the cheese step; add and melt it fresh upon reheating for best results.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

CaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSodium
41042g10g22g2g720mg

Explore more comforting dinners like this one! Read next: French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole – an easy, creamy casserole your whole family will love.

FAQ About French Onion Chicken with Gravy

How do you caramelize onions the right way?

Cooking onions over medium-low heat with butter and olive oil for 25–30 minutes draws out their natural sugar, turning them golden and sweet.

Can I use cheese other than mozzarella?

Yes, Swiss, Gruyère, and provolone all melt beautifully and enhance French Onion Chicken with Gravy with rich, nutty flavor.

What’s the best way to keep chicken juicy?

Thinly slicing helps chicken cook evenly without drying out. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Can I prepare French Onion Chicken with Gravy ahead of time?

Yes! Make the onion gravy ahead and refrigerate it. When ready, reheat the gravy, add the chicken, and top with cheese before serving.

What side dishes go best?

Mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice pair ideally with French Onion Chicken with Gravy to soak up the oniony, cheesy richness.

References and Source Acknowledgments

Nutritional values and food safety details in this French Onion Chicken with Gravy recipe are supported by trusted sources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
For accurate ingredient nutrition data, visit USDA FoodData Central.
To learn more about balanced meal guidelines and healthy cooking practices, explore Harvard’s Nutrition Source.

Both organizations provide research-backed information to help ensure your meals are delicious, healthy, and safely prepared.

Final Thoughts

Making French Onion Chicken with Gravy at home transforms a few humble ingredients into something utterly comforting and elegant. The caramelized onions, savory sauce, and golden cheese create the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace. Whether for family dinners or a cozy date night, this recipe offers the perfect blend of charm, flavor, and ease.

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