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French Onion Chicken Rice Recipe


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4 from 257 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting one-pan dinner combining tender seared chicken breasts with savory caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, flavorful long-grain rice cooked in rich beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, all topped with melted Gruyère cheese. This hearty dish blends the flavors of classic French onion soup into a satisfying American main course perfect for busy weeknight meals.


Ingredients

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese


Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor and ensure a good sear.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
  3. Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and cook the thinly sliced onions slowly until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add Rice and Liquids: Mix in the long-grain white rice, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
  6. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet evenly over the rice mixture.
  7. Bake the Dish: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the cover and evenly sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese over the chicken and rice. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor before serving hot.

Notes

  • Substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor, though increase baking time by about 10-15 minutes as brown rice requires longer cooking.
  • Add sliced mushrooms to the onions while caramelizing for an earthier taste and added texture.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat thoroughly before eating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American