FLAVORFUL FRENCH ONION SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup butter
6 cups thinly sliced sweet onions
2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
4 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup Progresso beef flavored broth (from 32-oz carton)
3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
12 (1/2-inch) slices French bread
2 cups shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese (8 oz)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1- Heat oven to 375°F. In 12-inch ovenproof stainless-steel skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the butter over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, 3 teaspoons of the thyme, the salt and pepper; cook 9 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions start to brown.

2- Reduce heat to medium; cook 10 to 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are caramelized. Add broth and chicken to caramelized onion mixture; heat to simmering. Remove from heat.

3- Meanwhile, in small microwavable bowl, microwave remaining 1/4 cup butter uncovered on High 20 to 30 seconds or until melted; brush on both sides of bread slices. Arrange on ungreased large cookie sheet, and toast in oven 8 to 10 minutes or until slightly toasted and starting to brown; remove from oven.

4- Arrange bread slices in skillet on top of onion mixture; top with cheese. Bake uncovered 10 to 12 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with remaining 1 teaspoon thyme.