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Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken Recipe

4.4 from 51 reviews

This Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts pan-seared to perfection and served with a rich, flavorful sauce made from slowly caramelized onions, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and creamy parmesan-infused broth. Perfect for an elegant yet simple weeknight dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 23 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

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make thinner cutlets. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this spice blend.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, add butter and chopped onions. Cook on low to medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and have a deep golden brown caramelized color. Then add balsamic vinegar and honey, sautéing the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
  4. Make the Sauce: Increase the heat to high and whisk in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
  5. Finish the Dish: Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy onion sauce over them, avoiding fully submerging the chicken. Serve immediately with your choice of rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, omit the butter and heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Ensure the onions caramelize slowly on lower heat to develop rich flavor without burning.
  • Slicing the chicken breasts thinly helps them cook evenly and quickly.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste before serving, especially salt and pepper in the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: chicken recipe, creamy chicken, caramelized onion sauce, easy dinner, skillet chicken, one pan meal