French Onion Chicken Soup

Name: French Onion Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 4 slices of baguette, toasted

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

A comforting and savory soup that combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and a touch of cheese.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:50:21.060Z

This French Onion Chicken Soup is a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup. It brings together tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and a layer of melted cheese for a heartwarming dish that is perfect for cold nights.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavor from caramelized onions
Tender chicken adds heartiness to the soup
Melted cheese on top creates a deliciously creamy texture
Perfect for cozy dinners or as a comforting lunch

      

A Taste of Comfort

French Onion Chicken Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining two classics into one hearty dish. The rich, savory broth infused with caramelized onions and tender chicken creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Each spoonful delivers a satisfying experience, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're simply in need of a cozy meal.

This soup not only satisfies your hunger but also nurtures your soul. The process of caramelizing onions brings out their natural sweetness, creating a deep, flavorful base that elevates the soup to new heights. When paired with juicy, shredded chicken, this dish transforms into a filling meal that everyone will love.

The Perfect Pairing

Topped with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous sprinkle of Gruyère cheese, this soup becomes an indulgent treat. As the cheese melts and bubbles under the broiler, it adds a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the savory broth and tender chicken. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also makes for an impressive presentation.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, French Onion Chicken Soup is an excellent choice. Its inviting aroma and comforting taste are sure to please family and friends alike, making it a go-to recipe that you can return to time and again.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the best aspects of French Onion Chicken Soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to accommodate dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients. For a lighter option, consider using rotisserie chicken or swapping out the Gruyère for a low-fat cheese alternative. The soup can also be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken, while still retaining its rich flavor profile.

Additionally, this soup can serve as a meal prep staple. Prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Reheating is a breeze, and you can enjoy the comforting flavors anytime you crave them.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 large onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping Ingredients

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
4 slices of baguette, toasted

Gather all the ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 25 minutes.

Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Add Chicken and Seasoning

Add the shredded chicken and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Topping

Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown. Place them on top of the soup in oven-safe bowls and top with shredded Gruyère cheese.

Broil the Soup

Broil the bowls in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious French Onion Chicken Soup with a side salad or your favorite bread.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

To achieve the best flavor, take your time when caramelizing the onions. A slower cooking process enhances their sweetness and creates that desired rich taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you find the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

Using high-quality chicken broth can also elevate your soup. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you're short on time, select a low-sodium store-bought option to control the saltiness of your dish. This will allow the natural flavors of the onions and chicken to shine through.

Serving Suggestions

To make your French Onion Chicken Soup even more delightful, serve it with a simple side salad or a plate of roasted vegetables. A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the soup, while roasted vegetables add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

For an added touch, consider garnishing the soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh, aromatic element that complements the deep flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the quality of the toppings, it’s best to keep the cheese and baguette separate until you're ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy the soup as if it were freshly made.

When reheating, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. For the best results, broil the cheese-topped baguette separately until melted and bubbly before serving. This will ensure that you get that delicious, freshly baked taste with every bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

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

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day ahead, just reheat before serving and add the cheese topping.

→ What type of cheese can I use?

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

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread for the topping and ensure your broth is gluten-free.