Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Mix Chicken Recipe
This Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Mix Chicken Recipe is the perfect combination of convenience and gourmet flavors. Tender chicken, caramelized onions, and a rich French onion soup mix-infused broth come together to create a savory, comforting meal. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing all the work, it’s an effortless dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 7 hours hrs
Total Time 7 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Slow Cooker (4-6 quart recommended Ensures even cooking and rich flavor infusion.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board For slicing onions and prepping chicken.
Wooden Spoon To mix ingredients evenly.
Mixing Bowl For combining broth and soup mix.
Oven-Safe Bowls (Optional) If you choose to broil with cheese.
Baking Sheet (optional) To toast bread if adding a crispy topping.
For the Chicken & Broth:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier texture)
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 2 medium yellow onions thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
For the Optional Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded (or Swiss/Mozzarella)
- 1 tbsp butter for brushing baguette slices
- 1 baguette sliced into rounds
Optional Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar adds depth to onions
- ½ cup dry white wine for extra richness
- 1 tbsp brandy or cognac for a classic French twist
- Extra thyme sprigs for garnish
1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients:
Slice the onions thinly for even cooking.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Mince the garlic to distribute flavor evenly.
2️⃣ Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Lay the seasoned chicken on top of the onions.
In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth and French onion soup mix.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Add the minced garlic and any optional ingredients (balsamic vinegar, wine, or brandy).
3️⃣ Set the Slow Cooker:
LOW: 6-8 hours for tender, fall-apart chicken.
HIGH: 3-4 hours if you need a quicker meal.
(Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as it extends cooking time.)
4️⃣ Optional: Broiled Cheese Topping (French Onion Style)
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with butter. Toast for 8-10 minutes.
Ladle hot soup & chicken into oven-safe bowls.
Top each with a toasted baguette slice and Gruyère cheese.
Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme for added flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Recipe Notes & Pro Tips
Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken:
✔ For deeper flavor, caramelize onions in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
✔ For richer broth, add a splash of dry white wine before slow cooking.
✔ Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and richer flavor.
✔ Broil with cheese for a French onion soup-style finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Best Ways to Reheat:
On the Stovetop: Warm over medium heat until hot.
In the Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals.
For the Topping: Toast bread and broil cheese fresh before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Chicken?
Yes! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What’s the Best Slow Cooker Size?
A 4- to 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! Freeze without bread & cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?
✔ Use gluten-free onion soup mix.
✔ Swap the baguette for a gluten-free alternative.
Keyword French onion chicken