French Onion-baked Chicken
French Onion-baked Chicken Recipe
Introduction
French Onion-baked Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with tender and juicy chicken. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
History
The combination of French onion flavors with chicken is a popular dish that has been enjoyed for many years. The rich and savory taste of caramelized onions pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lb (907 g) chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 0.33 cup ranch dressing
- 0.25 tbsp hot pepper sauce
- 1 can french fried onions
- 0.5 cup crushed cornflakes
How to prepare
- Skin the chicken.
- In a shallow bowl, stir together the salad dressing and hot pepper sauce.
- In another bowl, combine the onions and cornflakes.
- In a 3 qt (2.84 liter) baking dish, arrange the chicken pieces with the meaty side up.
- Brush the chicken with the salad dressing mixture.
- Sprinkle the chicken with the onion mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 425°F (218°C) for 35 – 40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and no longer pink.
Variations
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs or drumsticks for a leaner option.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the onion and cornflake mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to skin the chicken before preparing the dish to ensure that the flavors of the marinade and onion mixture are absorbed into the meat.
- Press the onion and cornflake mixture onto the chicken to create a crispy and flavorful crust.
- Bake the chicken uncovered to allow the onion mixture to caramelize and create a delicious crust on the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French Onion-baked Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute Greek yogurt for ranch dressing for a healthier option.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the chicken up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake. This can be done up to 24 hours in advance.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the French Onion-baked Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of extra French fried onions for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a glass of Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the rich flavors of the French onion and chicken.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.
Carbohydrates
This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Fats
This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.
Proteins
This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
French Onion-baked Chicken is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (ranch dressing) and gluten (cornflakes).
Summary
French Onion-baked Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Summary
French Onion-baked Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and savory flavors, crispy crust, and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for French Onion-baked Chicken. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for inspiration for dinner. As I shuffled through the yellowing index cards and tattered scraps of paper, I stumbled upon a faded newspaper clipping with the headline "French Onion-baked Chicken: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish."
My interest was piqued. I had always loved French onion soup, with its rich, savory broth and caramelized onions, so the idea of combining those flavors with tender chicken breasts sounded like a match made in culinary heaven. I read through the recipe, taking note of the simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. It seemed like a dish that would be perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
I decided to give it a try that very evening. I gathered the necessary ingredients - chicken breasts, French onion soup mix, sour cream, and bread crumbs - and set to work in my kitchen. As I mixed the soup mix with the sour cream and spread it over the chicken breasts, the aroma of onions and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
I placed the chicken in the oven to bake, and as it cooked, I busied myself with preparing side dishes to accompany the main course. The scent of the chicken wafted through the house, drawing my family members into the kitchen with hungry smiles on their faces.
When I pulled the chicken out of the oven, it was golden brown and bubbling with rich, savory sauce. I served it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans, and we all sat down to enjoy a meal that was both comforting and delicious. The flavors of the French onion soup mix had melded with the tender chicken, creating a dish that was both familiar and new.
As we ate, my family showered me with compliments on the dish, praising the flavors and textures of the French Onion-baked Chicken. My grandchildren, in particular, were enthusiastic in their approval, asking for second helpings and declaring it their new favorite meal.
I smiled to myself, pleased that my curiosity had led me to discover such a wonderful recipe. It quickly became a staple in my cooking repertoire, appearing on our dinner table regularly and always eliciting smiles of satisfaction from those who enjoyed it.
Over the years, I have shared the recipe for French Onion-baked Chicken with friends and neighbors, passing on the secret to creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that hot summer day when curiosity led me to try something new and delicious, and I am grateful for the joy it has brought to my family and loved ones.
As I sit here now, writing this story, I can almost smell the savory aroma of the chicken baking in the oven, and my mouth waters with the memory of its delicious flavors. I am reminded once again of the power of curiosity and the joy of discovering something new and wonderful in the world of cooking. And I am grateful for the recipe that has become a beloved part of my culinary legacy, passed down through the generations for all to enjoy.
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Cornflake Crumb Recipes | French Recipes | Fried Onion Recipes | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes |