Name: French Onion Chicken Rice Bake: A Comforting Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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French Onion Chicken Rice has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. This delightful dish transforms the classic French onion soup into a hearty casserole that features sweet golden onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese. The combination is not only satisfying but also evokes warm memories of family dinners gathered around the table. Join me as we explore how to create this scrumptious meal that is perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken Rice

There are countless reasons to adore this French onion chicken casserole. First, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Second, the rich flavors from the caramelized onions and savory broth create a taste sensation that lingers on your palate. Third, it’s a comfort food chicken recipe that brings warmth and joy to any table. Fourth, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Fifth, with just a few simple steps, you can whip up this French onion chicken recipe in under an hour and a half. Lastly, it’s gluten-free, catering to dietary needs while still being utterly delicious!

Ingredients for French Onion Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make French Onion Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook slowly, stirring often for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3: Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Place the chicken breasts over the rice. Pour beef and chicken broth over everything.
Step 5: Spoon the caramelized onions over the chicken.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best French Onion Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

This dish serves well as a family meal.
You can use different types of cheese according to your preference.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a creamy French onion chicken twist, add a touch of cream before baking!
Make sure to let your dish rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Chicken Rice

For the best experience, serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. You can also transform leftovers into a French onion rice bowl for lunch the next day, topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese.

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Chicken Rice

To store, place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quick meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Chicken Rice

What’s the secret to perfect French Onion Chicken Rice?

The secret lies in the slow caramelization of onions, which enhances their natural sweetness, making each bite of this French onion chicken dish deeply flavorful.

Can I make French Onion Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when ready to bake.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Chicken Rice?

Make sure to use enough broth to cook the rice thoroughly. Additionally, don’t rush the caramelizing step; slow cooking is key for developing flavor.

Variations of French Onion Chicken Rice You Can Try

Here are some fun twists to consider:

Use garlic French onion chicken by adding minced garlic to the onions.
Create a French onion chicken and rice casserole by layering extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Try a one-pot French onion chicken by cooking everything in a Dutch oven for an even easier cleanup.
Make it spicy by adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick!

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake: A Comforting Delight - French Onion Chicken Rice - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re looking for a quick meal, slow cooker Korean beef is a fantastic option!

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake: A Comforting Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake combines sweet golden onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese into a hearty casserole.

Instructions

Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook slowly, stirring often for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken breasts over the rice. Pour beef and chicken broth over everything.
Spoon the caramelized onions over the chicken.
Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.