Save Tender chicken breasts simmered with caramelized onions and a savory, herb-infused broth, topped with melted Gruyère cheese for a comforting, French-inspired meal—all made quickly in the Instant Pot.
The first time I made this French Onion Chicken, my family couldn't believe it came together so fast. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and gooey cheese instantly makes this dish a standout, even on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g), 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Broth & Flavorings: 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves), 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; substitute with more broth if desired), 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred), 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water)
- Topping: 4 slices French baguette (optional, use gluten-free if needed), 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
Instructions
- Season Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Caramelize Onions:
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are golden and caramelized.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Sauté for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze:
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits. Allow wine to reduce for 2 minutes.
- Add Broth & Chicken:
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Nestle the seasoned chicken breasts into the onion mixture. Cancel Sauté mode.
- Pressure Cook:
- Secure the lid and set to Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 8 minutes.
- Release Pressure:
- When cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Remove the chicken and set aside, tented with foil. Turn the Instant Pot back to Sauté. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Finish & Serve:
- Return chicken to the pot, spooning the onion sauce over each piece. (Optional) Preheat broiler. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet, top each with a slice of baguette and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2–3 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot, spooning extra onion sauce over each serving.
Save This cozy meal has become a favorite during chilly evenings, and it always brings everyone to the table. Even picky eaters love the savory sauce and melty cheese.
Required Tools
Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker, chef's knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet (if broiling cheese topping)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, cheese) and gluten (baguette; use gluten-free bread if needed). Double-check Worcestershire sauce for fish/soy allergens and ensure broth is gluten-free if necessary.
Nutritional Information
Per serving with baguette and cheese:
Calories: 410
Total Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 44 g
Save Serve hot for maximum comfort and flavor. This recipe makes weeknight dinners feel extra special.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook thinly sliced onions slowly in butter and olive oil over medium heat, stirring frequently for 8–10 minutes until they turn golden and develop a sweet flavor.
- → Can I use another cheese instead of Gruyère?
Yes, mozzarella or provolone are great alternatives that melt well and offer a milder taste.
- → Is white wine necessary in the broth?
White wine adds depth but can be omitted or replaced with additional beef broth if preferred.
- → How do I thicken the sauce after pressure cooking?
Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry, then stir into the warm sauce while simmering until it thickens.
- → Can this be made without the baguette topping?
Absolutely; you can skip the bread for a lower-carb dish, serving chicken with onions and melted cheese instead.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently warm chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture and flavor without drying out.