Description

French Onion Chicken Rice is a quick and savory meal combining tender chicken, caramelized onions, and fluffy rice infused with rich French onion flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Vegetables

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced

Grains

1 cup long-grain white rice

Liquids

2 cups beef broth or stock

Fats & Oils

2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil

Herbs & Spices

1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese (Optional)

½ cup grated Gruyere or Swiss cheese

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onions. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and stir often. Slowly cook the onions for about 15 minutes until they are deeply golden and sweet.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme. Push the caramelized onions to the side of the skillet, add the chicken, and cook over medium heat until golden on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Rice: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in the rice and toast lightly for one minute. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up browned bits for flavor. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until rice is tender and liquid absorbed, about 15 minutes.
Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice and onions. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the top if using, cover briefly until cheese melts. Stir gently to combine and heat through before serving.

Notes

Cook onions slowly over medium-low heat to develop deep caramelization without burning.
Use long-grain rice to maintain fluffiness and avoid stickiness.
Beef broth is essential for rich flavor; water will yield a less savory dish.
Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes off heat to retain juiciness before slicing.
Gruyere or Swiss cheese adds authentic French onion flavor but can be omitted if preferred.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: French-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: French onion chicken, chicken and rice, caramelized onions, easy weeknight dinner, one pan meal, gluten free, comfort food