French Onion Chicken Rice Recipe
Introduction
French Onion Chicken Rice combines the rich, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup with tender chicken and fluffy rice. This comforting one-pot meal is both easy to prepare and full of savory goodness, perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups rice
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or Swiss recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Step 4: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
- Step 5: Serve warm and enjoy the rich flavors of this comforting dish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to make it a bit lighter.
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth and simmer time accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and combine them before serving. Reheat gently to keep the chicken tender and the cheese melty.
PrintFrench Onion Chicken Rice Recipe
French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and savory beef broth, all cooked together with rice and topped with melted cheese for a delicious twist on classic French onion flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
Grains
- 1 cup long grain white rice
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 3 cups beef broth
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyere for authenticity)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts on top of the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the beef broth over the chicken and onions. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Rice in Mixture: Stir in the rice evenly throughout the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked (internal temperature 165°F).
- Top with Cheese: Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the cooked rice and chicken. Cover the pan again and let it sit on low heat for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted, fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve hot, spooning chicken, rice, and onions on plates.
Notes
- For deeper onion flavor, allow onions to caramelize slowly over medium-low heat.
- Substitute chicken broth for beef broth if preferred, but beef broth enhances the French onion flavor.
- Use Swiss or Gruyere cheese for best melting and authentic taste.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
- You can cut chicken into pieces before cooking for faster preparation.
Keywords: French onion chicken rice, one-pot chicken recipe, caramelized onions chicken, cheesy chicken rice, easy dinner
