If you love the comforting, savory flavors of French onion soup, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Instant Pot® French Onion Chicken recipe! It’s an indulgent meal that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and the help of your trusty Instant Pot®, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own home.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This French onion chicken dish is a fantastic twist on a classic soup, transforming tender chicken breasts into a culinary delight. The rich flavors from sautéed onions enhanced by balsamic vinegar and red wine, combined with gooey, melted Provolone cheese, make for a truly satisfying meal. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also a clean quick meal that the whole family will enjoy.
With a total prep time of just 15 minutes and an active cook time of only 6 minutes, this recipe is designed for those who crave both convenience and taste. What’s more, it’s a heartwarming dish that brings the essence of cozy French bistros right to your dinner table.
Flavor Profile
Each bite of this Instant Pot® French Onion Chicken reveals tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a wonderful sauce made from caramelized onions and aromatic herbs. The Provolone adds a creaminess that pairs perfectly with the umami depth of the dish. This recipe also lends itself to numerous variations; for a little kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or substituting with your favorite cheese for a unique spin.
Personal Touch
When I first stumbled upon a similar recipe at a family gathering, the melting cheese and fragrant onions created such a memorable experience that I had to recreate it at home. This version, made effortlessly in the Instant Pot®, has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s an easy way to impress guests and get compliments around the dinner table, all while knowing I haven’t spent hours in the kitchen!
Let’s Dive into the Recipe
Ready to make your own Instant Pot® French Onion Chicken? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 T. unsalted butter
- 1 T. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lbs. yellow onions, sliced root to tip
- 1 t. garlic powder
- ½ t. Italian seasoning
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 T. balsamic vinegar
- ½ c. dry red wine
- Optional: 2 t. Worcestershire sauce*
- 1¼ c. beef broth, preferably organic
- 2 bay leaves
- 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs
- 1¼ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded ½” thick
- 6-8 thin mild (non-smoked) Provolone cheese slices
Directions
- Select the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot® and adjust to the medium setting. Add the butter and olive oil; stir until the butter is melted.
- Add the sliced onions along with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper, mixing well. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Pour in the balsamic vinegar and dry red wine, scraping the bottom to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits. Reduce the liquid by half before stirring in Worcestershire sauce (if using) and beef broth.
- Cancel the sauté function. Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper, then lay them into the pot. Add bay leaves and thyme on top.
- Lock the lid in place, ensuring the pressure release valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” setting on high pressure and adjust the cooking time to 6 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid and discard bay leaves and thyme stems.
- Top the chicken breasts with slices of Provolone cheese, covering the pot with the lid for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides and enjoy your delightful Instant Pot® French Onion Chicken!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up the wonderful sauce. A glass of dry red wine would complement the flavors perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Have you tried this Instant Pot® French Onion Chicken? I’d love to hear your experiences and any variations you’ve made! Share your thoughts in the comments below!
