French Onion Chicken Macaroni and Cheese combines the rich, savory flavors of French Onion Soup with creamy, cheesy macaroni and tender chicken. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. For another French Onion-inspired treat, check out my French Onion Deviled Eggs—yes, you read that right! Both recipes pack all the delicious French Onion flavor in unique ways.
Ingredients:
Caramelized Onions
- 2 medium yellow onions, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Mac and Cheese
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (490 g) whole milk, warmed
- 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) sharp Gruyere cheese, freshly shredded
- ½ cup (56.5 g) mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- 2 cups (280 g) shredded rotisserie chicken
Topping
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup (28 g) Gruyere cheese, shredded
- Fresh thyme, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, butter, and onions.
- Turn the heat to low, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes until softened.
- Increase the heat to medium, uncover, and cook the onions until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Once caramelized, cover the pan and remove from heat. Set aside.
Make the Mac and Cheese:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it turns light brown.
- Gradually add the warm milk and beef stock, whisking constantly.
- Return the pan to heat and whisk for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the salt, garlic powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the Gruyere, mozzarella, and caramelized onions. Stir until the cheese melts.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.
- Mix in the shredded chicken until fully incorporated.
Topping:
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Top with ¼ cup shredded Gruyere cheese.
- Bake, uncovered, for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh thyme.
Serve hot for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
