Preparing the French Onion Filling:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried oregano, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then remove it from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Stuffing the Chicken Breasts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the French onion filling, then sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese on top.
- Secure the pockets closed with toothpicks if necessary, then place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Baking the Chicken Breasts:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake the chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, alongside your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion:
With its rich, savory filling and tender, juicy chicken, our French Onion Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe is a true culinary delight. Whether enjoyed as a gourmet weeknight dinner or served as the centerpiece of a special occasion meal, this dish is sure to impress. Bon appétit!