French Onion Chicken Rice

French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting, one-pot dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and fluffy rice. This easy-to-make recipe features caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked rice in a deliciously cheesy, herb-infused broth. Ideal for a cozy family dinner, this dish is both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot meal: Easy prep and minimal cleanup.
• Rich and comforting: Inspired by classic French onion soup.
• Full of flavor: Caramelized onions, herbs, and gooey cheese.
• Kid-friendly: Creamy rice and tender chicken make it a hit with all ages.
• Great for leftovers: Reheats well for next-day meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken and Rice

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine works well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional, for a cheesy finish)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
• Extra grated cheese
• Croutons for crunch

Directions

Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Caramelize Onions: Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Reduce heat if onions brown too quickly. Remove onions from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

3. Sear the Chicken: Add the remaining olive oil to the pan. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Spices: Stir in garlic powder, thyme, and parsley. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Prepare the Rice

5. Combine Ingredients: Add caramelized onions back to the pan along with the rice. Stir to coat the rice with flavors.
6. Add Liquids: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
7. Cook the Rice: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Optional: Make It Cheesy

8. Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese on top. Cover the pan and let the cheese melt, or place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve

9. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot. Add croutons for extra crunch if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Make It Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.
• Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, green beans, or peas for added nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
• French Onion Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and croutons, and bake until bubbly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well. Be sure not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring while cooking. Make sure the liquid ratio is correct.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats well. Store it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Gruyère is classic for a French onion flavor, but Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone are also great choices.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, caramelize the onions and sear the chicken on the stovetop first. Then, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the rice is tender.

How do I get the best caramelized onions?

Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally. Adding a pinch of sugar can help speed up the caramelization process.

Can I use pre-cooked rice to save time?

Yes, add cooked rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb the flavors. Reduce the broth to 1 cup.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add wine for extra flavor?

Yes, deglaze the pan with ½ cup of dry white wine after cooking the chicken for a richer flavor.

What can I serve with French Onion Chicken Rice?

Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

French Onion Chicken Rice is a delightful, comforting dish that brings all the best flavors of French onion soup into a hearty, satisfying meal. The caramelized onions, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice make this dish a must-try for cozy family dinners. Whether you top it with gooey cheese or enjoy it as is, this easy one-pot recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this delicious dish!

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