Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken Recipe
This Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, velvety sauce made from caramelized onions, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and cream. The addition of parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, making it a comforting and elegant dish ideal for a hearty dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2–3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup finely chopped or sliced onions
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon honey (or sugar)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to ensure they are well seasoned.
- Cook the chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the onions: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until the onions are soft, translucent, and golden brown, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and honey, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture is slightly reduced and syrupy.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.
- Create the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate parmesan cheese (optional): Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated, adding a rich, savory element to the sauce.
- Return chicken to the skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb some of the sauce flavors and reheat.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and generously spoon the creamy caramelized onion sauce over the top. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For more depth of flavor, you can use yellow or sweet onions for caramelization.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with boneless thighs if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- To make the dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but recommended for an enhanced umami flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
Keywords: Creamy caramelized onion chicken, chicken breasts recipe, caramelized onions, creamy chicken skillet, easy dinner recipes
