Zesty, savory, and utterly delicious, this Campbell French Onion Soup Chicken recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Combining the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken, this dish is a surefire way to impress with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- The Campbell French Onion Soup adds a depth of flavor that’s both rich and comforting, eliminating the need for multiple spices.
- Chicken breasts become incredibly tender and juicy when baked in the soup mixture, ensuring a moist result every time.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and additions based on what you have on hand.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s French Onion Soup
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. This little step ensures your chicken won’t stick to the pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the chicken’s natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
Add the Soup
Pour the Campbell’s French Onion Soup evenly over the chicken. The soup acts as both a marinade and a sauce, infusing the chicken with its signature flavor as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as moist and flavorful as possible. Serve over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing some sliced onions and mushrooms before adding them to the baking dish with the chicken and soup. If you’re short on time, you can skip the foil step, but covering the chicken initially helps to lock in moisture. For a crispier cheese topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- Add a layer of crispy bacon on top before baking for a smoky twist.
- Incorporate a cup of cooked pasta into the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
- Use provolone or Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For a low-carb version, serve the chicken over a bed of zucchini noodles instead of rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade French onion soup instead of Campbell’s?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade French onion soup recipe, feel free to use it in place of the canned version. Just ensure it’s similar in consistency to Campbell’s for the best results.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Campbell’s offers a gluten-free version of their French Onion Soup, which works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to check all other ingredients, like spices and cheeses, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Summary
This Campbell French Onion Soup Chicken recipe is a deliciously easy way to bring the flavors of French onion soup to your dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
