French Onion Chicken Soup

Name: French Onion Chicken Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups sliced onions; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices of crusty bread; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

A comforting and flavorful twist on a classic, this French Onion Chicken Soup combines tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and rich broth, topped with melted cheese.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-05T16:42:21.334Z

This French Onion Chicken Soup is a delightful mix of flavors that pays homage to the classic onion soup while adding the heartiness of chicken. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavor from caramelized onions
Hearty and satisfying with tender chicken
Melted cheese adds a deliciously creamy finish

      

A Gourmet Twist on a Classic

French Onion Soup is a beloved classic, known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This French Onion Chicken Soup takes that classic and elevates it by adding tender, juicy chicken. The combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and succulent chicken makes this soup not just a starter, but a hearty meal that can easily warm you up on a chilly day.

The sweet, caramelized onions become the star of this dish. Their natural sugars develop during the cooking process, creating a depth of flavor that complements the savory broth. When paired with tender chicken and topped with melted Gruyère cheese, this soup transforms into an indulgent experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this French Onion Chicken Soup fits the bill. It's versatile enough to serve as a starter or as the main course, appealing to both casual and formal dining occasions. The warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation.

Additionally, this soup is a great way to use leftover chicken, making it both economical and practical. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences by using rotisserie chicken or even a vegetarian broth for a meatless option, allowing it to cater to various tastes.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your French Onion Chicken Soup, take your time caramelizing the onions. This step is crucial, as it lays the foundation for the soup's rich taste. Stir the onions frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning, allowing them to develop a deep golden color.

When broiling the cheese-topped bread, keep a close eye on it. Cheese can go from bubbly to burnt in a matter of seconds, so it's best to check frequently. If you don't have Gruyère cheese on hand, feel free to substitute it with Swiss or mozzarella for a different but equally delicious flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 cups sliced onions
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices of crusty bread
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Make sure you have everything ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.

Incorporate Chicken

Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the shredded chicken. Let it cook for another 10 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.

Prepare the Bread

While the soup simmers, preheat the broiler. Toast the bread slices until golden brown, then top each slice with shredded Gruyère cheese.

Broil to Melt Cheese

Place the cheese-topped bread under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the cheesy bread, and enjoy your French Onion Chicken Soup!

Enjoy your meal!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover French Onion Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, it's best to keep the cheesy bread separate to maintain its crisp texture. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you prefer to freeze the soup, it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just like with refrigeration, store the cheese and bread separately. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and then add freshly broiled cheese-topped bread for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

This French Onion Chicken Soup pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or a plate of roasted vegetables. A light arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, enhancing your overall dining experience.

For a touch of elegance, consider serving this dish with a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity in the wine will cut through the richness of the soup, creating a delightful balance on the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, using beef broth will give the soup a richer flavor.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken.

→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Gruyère cheese is traditional, but you can also use Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor.