Caramelized Onion Dutch Oven Chicken Recipe

The best chicken recipe for caramelized onion lovers! This dairy-free cream sauce is everything! To finish the dish, serve with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.

– ▢3 Tbsp avocado oil, or more if needed* – ▢1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced – ▢3 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, about 8 thigh – ▢1 tsp sea salt, to taste – ▢½ tsp black pepper, to taste – ▢4 cloves garlic, minced – ▢1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – ▢1.5 Tbsp balsamic vinegar – ▢1 Tbsp honey – ▢Zest of 1 lemon – ▢1 sprig fresh thyme

Ingredients

Heat avocado oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. A large skillet with a deep lip and lid works too.

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Sprinkle sea salt over the cut onions. Sauté until the onion turns slightly brown, 10–15 minutes, stirring periodically. 

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Lower the heat to medium or medium-low and sauté the onion for 40 more minutes until extremely tender and golden brown.

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When simmering is nearly done, heat minced garlic until fragrant. Avoid burning by reducing heat, stirring more, or adding oil if the onion looks too brown or crispy.

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Place the chicken on a large dish or chopping board while the onion caramelizes. Chicken thighs can be dried with paper towels.

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Season with black pepper and sea salt. Leave it at room temp while onion cooks.In a small bowl or measuring cup, mix canned coconut milk, balsamic vinegar, honey, and lemon zest. 

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Keep till use. Reserve caramelized onion in a basin till use. Return the pot to the stove. Brown chicken with more avocado oil in the pot.

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Let the pot heat up on medium-high for a few minutes.Cook skin-side-down chicken thighs in a single layer for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. 

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Cook 3 more minutes after flipping. Two batches may be needed depending on pot size.Add sauce and caramelized onions to the pot after frying the chicken.

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Cover the saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat for 20–30 minutes until the chicken thighs reach 180 degrees Fahrenheit. 

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Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh to measure internal temperature. Enjoy caramelized onion chicken with your favorite sides!

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Also See

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa, Pears, and Pecans Recipe