Gluten Free French Onion Soup with Chicken (Instant Pot)

This recipe for Gluten Free French onion soup is a variation of the classic comfort food, adjusted for those of us with food allergies and dietary restrictions! It is also a lighter and more wholesome take! The sweet, caramelized onions combined with a flavorful broth and crusty bread create a nostalgic taste that is perfect for fall or winter nights.

This soup uses simple and delicious ingredients. The addition of chicken adds a satisfying protein boost, making this soup a complete meal in itself. It’s easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special cozy treat. It’s also kid-friendly! This recipe calls for minimal prep and once you throw everything in the instant pot, you’re good to go! I hope you enjoy this comforting dish! If you love soup, be sure to also try my other gluten free faves- instant pot chicken gnocchi soup, gluten free chicken noodle soup and healthy chicken pot pie soup!

Why You’ll Love This Soup

It’s gluten free and dairy free.

This French onion soup has the classic flavors but is made with more wholesome ingredients.

It is bursting with flavor!

This recipe is so easy to make!

This soup is perfect for a cozy fall or winter night.

It is family-friendly!

I added protein (chicken) to this soup to make it a full meal.

What Is French Onion Soup?

French Onion Soup is a classic French dish that features a rich, flavorful broth made from onions that have been slowly caramelized until they are sweet and tender. It is typically served with a layer of melted cheese, often Gruyère or Swiss and a crouton topped with a sprinkle of herbs.

Equipment Needed

All you need to make this gluten free French onion soup is an instant pot, knife, cutting board, forks, a mixing spoon and measuring cups and spoons.

Ingredients Needed

Onions: I used 3 sweet onions in this French onion soup! I like the taste of sweet onions the best in this dish.

Broth: I used chicken stock in this recipe. I like to purchase organic chicken stock when I can. You can also use vegetable broth or bone broth here!

Chicken: I used 1 lb of chicken breasts in this recipe!

Coconut Aminos: Coconut aminos add a delicious flavor to this French onion soup.

Spices/Herbs: I used bay leaves and thyme in this soup to give it a delicious flavor.

Croutons: I used homemade gluten free croutons for this recipe, but you can use store bought croutons as well.

Cheese: Cheese is optional for this recipe. I skipped it but feel free to add cheese or dairy free cheese melted on the top!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Chop your onions.

Step 3: Set instant pot to “sauté” and cook onions until browned.

Step 4: Add broth, chicken, bay leaves, thyme and coconut aminos to the instant pot. Cook for 15-20 minutes and select “pressure release”.

Step 5: Shred chicken. Serve with croutons and optional cheese and enjoy!

Storage

Store this gluten free French onion chicken soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 4-5 days. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months!

Variations

Broth: I used chicken stock in this recipe, but you can also use bone broth or vegetable broth.

Vegetables: The classic French onion soup is comprised of mainly onions, but you can also add additional vegetables if you prefer! Try adding mushrooms, carrots, celery, leeks, potatoes or green beans.

Croutons: I used homemade gluten free sourdough croutons in this recipe, but feel free to use store bought croutons. Any kind of bread works here!

Cheese: I skipped the cheese this time, but feel free to add your favorite cheese (dairy free or not)!

Spices/Herbs: I used bay leaves and thyme in this recipe. You can also add black pepper, rosemary, garlic, parsley or nutmeg!

Protein: I added chicken to this French onion soup to make it a complete meal! You can also add ground turkey or ground beef.

How to Serve

The classic way to serve French onion soup is with croutons and melty cheese! I like to serve mine alongside a salad in a cute little bowl! This gluten free French onion soup can be a side dish or a main dish!

Recipe FAQ

What brand of french onion soup is gluten free?

I have never had gluten free French onion soup or found a soup that meets all of my dietary restrictions and food allergies, so I decided to make my own!

What is the best onion to use for French onion soup?

I think that sweet onions are the best choice for French onion soup!

Does it matter how you cut the onions for this soup? 

You can cut the onions any way you like for this soup!

How do you cut the onions stringy?

If you want to cut the onions long and stringy cut the onion in half. Place the onion on a cutting board. Slice the onion into thin, even slices. Stack the slices to cut them into fine strands. Cut the stacked slices into thin strands.

Can you make this soup without an instant pot?

Yes! In a large pot over medium heat, add the onions and cook until they deeply caramelized and golden brown. Stir in the bay leaves and thyme. Cook for 1 minute more. Add chicken, pour in the broth, bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the flavors have combined and the chicken is done. Shred the chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with cheese and crusty bread.

Is this soup vegan?

No, this soup is not vegan. You can make it vegan by removing the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Is this soup dairy free?

Yes, this soup is dairy free!

Related Recipes

Be sure to try these cozy fall ideas next:

Carrot Cake Protein Balls

Caramel Apple Grapes

Apple Nachos

Gluten Free Apple Fritters

Paleo Pumpkin Cookies

If you make this gluten free French onion soup and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.