# French Onion Baked Chicken: A Tasty Weeknight Meal
French onion baked chicken is a wonderful and straightforward dish that merges the savory essence of French onion soup with juicy chicken breasts. Dipped in a blend of Dijon mustard and egg, then coated with crispy fried onions, this baked chicken is an ideal choice for a speedy weeknight meal. The outcome is a golden, appetizing dish that demands minimal preparation and cleanup.
## Flavor Profile
This meal features a rich, savory onion flavor enhanced by the zest of Dijon mustard. The crispy fried onion crust delivers a satisfying crunch, making every mouthful enjoyable and flavorful.
## Why Prepare It?
One of the most appealing parts of this recipe is its ease. There’s no complicated breading setup or frying necessary. The method is simply dipping the chicken, pressing it into the onions, and baking. This translates to less time on preparation and cleaning, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.
## Essential Tools
To create French onion baked chicken, you will need:
– A freezer bag and a rolling pin to crush the fried onions.
– A bowl for blending the egg and mustard.
– A baking pan to cook the chicken.
– A meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches the right temperature.
## Serving Suggestions
This dish complements a variety of sides. Think about serving it with:
– Roasted veggies for a nutritious addition.
– Creamy mashed potatoes for warmth.
– Light rice to absorb any juices.
– A fresh salad for a crisp contrast.
## The Best Crunchy Ingredients
### Chicken
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts tenderized to a ½-inch thickness for uniform cooking. Chicken tenders or cutlets can be utilized, but will need a shorter baking duration.
### Fried Onions
Crush the crispy fried onions to guarantee better coverage and sticking to the chicken. For ease, you can smash them in a zippered bag.
### Seasoning
Dijon mustard lends a sharp flavor, while spicy brown mustard contributes a kick. Mayonnaise can be used for a gentler coat. Boost the flavor with seasoned salt or your preferred poultry seasoning.
### Variations
For extra taste, think about adding a dash of garlic powder, cayenne, or smoked paprika to the egg mixture. You can also sprinkle shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese on top during the final moments of baking for a cheesy flair.
## How to Prepare French Onion Baked Chicken
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Tenderize the chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness.
3. Crush the fried onions in a freezer bag with a rolling pin, then move them to a bowl.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the egg, Dijon mustard, and salt together. Add the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Take each chicken breast from the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, then press into the crushed onions to stick.
6. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F.
### Tips for Success
– Pat the chicken dry prior to coating to aid the mixture in adhering better.
– Allow surplus egg to drip off before pressing into the onions for a crunchier crust.
– Let the coated chicken rest for about 5 minutes before baking to help the topping settle.
– If the onion crust browns too rapidly, loosely cover it with foil to stop burning.
## Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze the cooked chicken on a tray until firm, then move to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, bake at 375°F until warmed through, or use an air fryer at 350°F to restore the crunch of the onion crust.
## Conclusion
French onion baked chicken is a cozy and tasty meal that is ideal for any weeknight supper. With its straightforward preparation and delicious flavor, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Savor this delightful dish alongside your favorite sides for a complete dining experience.