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creamy caramelized onion chicken - featured image

Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken: 5-Ingredient Easy Dinner


  • Author: abigail_patterson
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple, comforting weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich, savory sauce made with deeply caramelized onions and heavy cream.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 3 large yellow onions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Pound to an even 1-inch thickness if necessary.
  2. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown but slightly underdone in the center. Remove to a plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining butter and sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are deep golden brown and jammy.
  4. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the onions; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Return chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Nestle chicken into sauce.
  7. Cover and simmer on low for 8-10 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not rush the caramelization of the onions; low and slow heat is essential for sweet, jammy results. Ensure the sauce does not boil after adding cream to prevent curdling. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts for a richer flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6
  • Sodium: 600
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 12
  • Carbohydrates: 10
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 40

Keywords: chicken dinner, caramelized onions, creamy sauce, easy weeknight meal, comfort food, 5-ingredient recipe, gluten-free dinner