French onion chicken casserole bakes tender chicken in a rich onion soup gravy topped with melted Swiss cheese. This high protein, family-friendly chicken dish combines two comfort food classics in one delicious bake.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
Thinly slice the onions. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and 1 tbsp olive oil, then add onions with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized but not burnt.
While onions cook, season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Once onions are caramelized, add chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer and scrape up all the browned bits; simmer for 2–3 minutes to create a rich gravy.
Transfer chicken breasts to the prepared casserole dish. Spread caramelized onion mixture evenly over the chicken, then ladle the pan gravy over all.
Top chicken with Swiss cheese slices, then arrange baguette slices on top. Mist or brush bread lightly with olive oil.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp reaches 165°F), cheese is melted, and bread is golden. For extra crispy bread, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to settle.