Creamy French Onion Chicken (Keto Friendly)

If you're looking for a comforting and rich dish that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle, look no further than Creamy French Onion Chicken. This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and creamy cheese, making it a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also low in carbs, making it an ideal candidate for those following a ketogenic diet. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced (about 2 cups / 300 g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth or stock
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are soft and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze, incorporating all the flavorful bits into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the chicken, cover, and let it melt for about 2-3 minutes.
8. Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Creamy French Onion Chicken warm with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to keep it keto-friendly. It also pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete meal that is both satisfying and low in carbs.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the chicken breasts for another type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat may require a slightly longer cooking time.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, you can use a dairy-free cheese product or simply omit it altogether.

4. What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you prefer a different flavor, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the taste of the dish.

5. How can I add more veggies to this recipe?

You can easily add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the skillet when cooking the onions. This will enhance the flavor and add more nutrients to your meal!

Now that you have this delicious recipe for Creamy French Onion Chicken in your hands, it's time to get cooking! Enjoy this rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion while staying within your keto lifestyle. Bon appétit!