Name: French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: For the Caramelized Onions:; 2 medium yellow onions, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; For the Mac and Cheese Base:; 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained; ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter; ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (490 g) warm whole milk; 1 cup (240 g) beef stock; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup (113 g) shredded Gruyère cheese; ½ cup (56.5 g) shredded mozzarella; 2 cups (280 g) shredded rotisserie chicken; For the Topping:; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup (28 g) shredded Gruyère cheese; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Introducing a delightful twist on two comforting classics: French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese. This dish uniquely combines the deeply satisfying flavors of traditional French onion soup with the creamy richness of mac and cheese, making for a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the bubbly, toasted topping of Gruyère cheese. All of these melt-in-your-mouth elements come together to create a meal that doesn’t just satiate your hunger; it warms your soul.

Whether you’re cooped up on a chilly evening or hosting a gathering with friends, this French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese promises to bring everyone to the table. It’s a straightforward recipe packed with pantry staples that most of us already have on hand, and it can be ready in less than an hour! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that families will adore, from the youngest to the oldest.

Once you’ve tasted the depth of flavor from caramelized onions mingling with your pasta and cheese, you’ll understand why this dish has become a must-make for every potluck or family dinner. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes memories and satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Deliciously combines two ultimate comfort foods: French onion soup and macaroni and cheese.
Made with easy-to-find ingredients, perfect for weeknight dinners.
The sweet, caramelized onions elevate the flavor profile with their richness.
Ready in under an hour — quick enough for busy nights yet satisfying enough for special occasions.
Ideal for using leftover rotisserie chicken, reducing waste and saving time.
Family-friendly and appealing to both kids and adults, it’s great for gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking this French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring that your workspace is clean and organized, as this will help streamline your cooking process.

You will need a large skillet for caramelizing your onions and a saucepan to create your cheese sauce. A mixing bowl is essential for combining the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and shredded chicken. Don’t forget a 9×13-inch baking dish, which will allow you to bake the dish to perfection. Preparing these tools in advance will save you time and confusion while cooking.

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:
2 medium yellow onions, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese Base:
16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained
½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (490 g) warm whole milk
1 cup (240 g) beef stock
2 teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground mustard powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup (113 g) shredded Gruyère cheese
½ cup (56.5 g) shredded mozzarella
2 cups (280 g) shredded rotisserie chicken

For the Topping:
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup (28 g) shredded Gruyère cheese
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking. While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent your creamy mac and cheese from sticking.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the diced onions along with the sea salt and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the onions to cook for about 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally, so they cook evenly and don’t stick. When the onions are soft, remove the lid, increase heat back to medium, and let them cook until they develop a gorgeous golden brown color. This caramelization is crucial, as it brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Once done, set the onions aside while you make the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining unsalted butter. Once it’s completely melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it turns fragrant and slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and beef stock, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir continuously for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a velvety sauce. This is the foundation of your creamy mac and cheese.

Step 4: Season and Add Cheese

Once your sauce is thickened, season it by whisking in the kosher salt, ground mustard powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper for a kick (if you so desire). Lower the heat and carefully fold in the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella cheese until they melt beautifully, creating a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce. Incorporate the caramelized onions, folding gently until they’re evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked al dente macaroni, the creamy cheese sauce, and the shredded rotisserie chicken. Use a spatula to mix everything until the pasta is well coated in sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together. Once mixed, transfer the cheesy mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

For the final baking step, top your mixture with the remaining shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, inviting you to dig in.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, allow your French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese to rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the layers set slightly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Now, it’s time to serve this cozy comfort food!

Variations

Protein: Substitute rotisserie chicken with shredded beef or sautéed shrimp for a different twist.
Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to incorporate more flavors and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for added depth.

Cooking Notes

Be patient while caramelizing onions; the key is low and slow for maximum sweetness.
If you want to save time, precook your macaroni and chicken ahead of time and simply combine the ingredients when ready to bake.
This recipe is freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
A glass of crisp white wine complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Tips

Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor and gooey texture.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to fit your personal taste preferences.
For added flavor, mix in some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 820mg

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack would add unique flavors to your dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and flour to create a delicious gluten-free version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food while offering numerous variations to make it your own. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and wonderful ease of preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively family gathering. Dive into this recipe, indulge in its warmth and flavors, and don’t be shy to share your experience or variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!