I recently discovered a new recipe that combines two of my favorite comfort foods: French onion soup and macaroni and cheese. This French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.

The recipe starts with a base of tender chicken breasts, sautéed with caramelized onions and garlic. The chicken is then mixed with cooked macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce, made with a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan cheese. The dish is then topped with a layer of crispy breadcrumbs and broiled until golden brown.

The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy any cravings for comfort food. The savory flavors of the caramelized onions and garlic perfectly complement the creamy cheese sauce, while the crispy breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch. This French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a new twist on classic comfort food.

Origins of French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

As a lover of French onion soup and macaroni and cheese, I was ecstatic when I discovered the combination of the two. While the exact origins of French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese are unclear, it is believed to have originated in the United States.

The dish likely evolved from the classic French onion soup, which is made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with a slice of bread and melted cheese. The addition of chicken and macaroni to the dish creates a heartier, more filling meal that is perfect for a cold winter night.

French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese has become a popular dish in recent years, with many variations and adaptations. Some recipes call for the use of Gruyere cheese, while others use cheddar or a combination of both. Some recipes also include the use of breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch.

Overall, French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a delicious and comforting meal that combines the flavors of two classic dishes. Whether you’re a fan of French onion soup or macaroni and cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Key Ingredients

Chicken

One of the key ingredients in this French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese dish is the chicken. I prefer to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. However, you can use any part of the chicken that you prefer. It’s important to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the macaroni and cheese.

Onions

Another important ingredient in this dish is onions. I use yellow onions for this recipe, but you can use any type of onion that you prefer. The onions are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor to the dish.

Cheese

Cheese is an essential component of any macaroni and cheese dish, and this recipe is no exception. I use a combination of gruyere and cheddar cheese for this recipe. The gruyere cheese adds a nutty flavor while the cheddar cheese adds a sharpness to the dish.

Macaroni

The macaroni is the base of this dish, and I prefer to use elbow macaroni. However, you can use any type of pasta that you prefer. It’s important to cook the pasta al dente so that it doesn’t become mushy when baked with the other ingredients.

Seasonings

To add flavor to this dish, I use a combination of seasonings including thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. These seasonings complement the other ingredients in the dish and add a depth of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Caramelizing Onions

To make the French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, caramelizing onions is a crucial step. It is important to cook onions slowly over low heat to bring out their natural sweetness. To achieve this, I slice the onions thinly and cook them in butter and olive oil over low heat for about 30 minutes. I stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan.

Baking the Dish

Baking the French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is the final step to bring all the flavors together. I preheat the oven to 375°F and transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish. I sprinkle grated cheese on top and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Boiling Pasta

Cooking the pasta is an important step in making any macaroni and cheese dish. I use a large pot of boiling salted water to cook the pasta until it is al dente. It is important to not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once the pasta is cooked, I drain it and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Alternatives

For those who prefer a vegetarian version of French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, there are a few options to consider. One option is to simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Another option is to substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan, which can provide a similar texture and protein content. Additionally, adding some roasted vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, can add some extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.

Cheese Substitutes

If you are lactose intolerant or simply prefer not to use dairy products, there are several cheese substitutes that can be used in this recipe. One option is to use vegan cheese, which is made from plant-based ingredients such as soy, nuts, or coconut oil. Another option is to use nutritional yeast, which has a cheesy flavor and can be used as a seasoning. Additionally, using a combination of cashews, water, and spices can create a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce that can be used in place of traditional cheese.

Overall, there are many ways to customize French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese to fit your dietary preferences and taste preferences. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a rich and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite options:

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the savory flavors of the macaroni and cheese.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the macaroni and cheese. It also adds some crunch and texture to the meal.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to any pasta dish. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Wine Pairings

When it comes to wine pairings for French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, you’ll want to choose a wine that can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish. Here are a few options:

Chardonnay: A full-bodied, oaky Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce and the savory chicken. Look for a wine with notes of vanilla and caramel to complement the dish.
Pinot Noir: If you prefer red wine, a Pinot Noir is a good choice. It’s a lighter-bodied wine that won’t overpower the flavors of the macaroni and cheese. Look for a wine with notes of cherry and spice.
Rosé: If you’re looking for a refreshing wine to balance out the richness of the dish, a dry rosé is a great option. Look for a wine with notes of strawberry and citrus to complement the flavors of the chicken and onions.

No matter what you choose, remember that wine pairing is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different wines to find the perfect match for your taste buds.

French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Author: recipstep
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious fusion of classic French onion soup flavors with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with tender chicken.

Ingredients

– 8 oz macaroni pasta
– 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, and let the mixture simmer until thickened.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, caramelized onion mixture, Gruyere cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
8. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to add cooked bacon or diced mushrooms for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Fusion (French-American)

Nutrition

Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 920mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 150mg