French Onion Chicken Rice

French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting, one-pan meal that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and savory rice. With caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a deep, umami-packed taste, this dish is both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe delivers on flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience – Easy cleanup and minimal prep.
• Packed with flavor – The classic French onion taste in a hearty meal.
• Family-friendly – A comforting dish everyone will love.
• Customizable – Can be adapted with different proteins or cheeses.
• Perfect for leftovers – Even better the next day!

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Long-grain white rice
• Beef broth
• French onion soup mix
• Butter
• Onions, thinly sliced
• Garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat & Sauté – In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in garlic and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Brown the Chicken – Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Push the onions to the side and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
3. Cook the Rice – Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and French onion soup mix to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
4. Simmer & Bake – Cover and let it simmer for a few minutes, then transfer to a preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Melt the Cheese – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese on top and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve & Enjoy – Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Use different proteins – Try boneless pork chops or even ground beef instead of chicken.
• Cheese options – Swap mozzarella for Gruyère, Swiss, or provolone for a richer flavor.
• Add mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add extra depth and earthiness.
• Make it creamy – Stir in a little heavy cream or sour cream for a creamy texture.
• Low-carb option – Substitute cauliflower rice and adjust the liquid accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of broth, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring during cooking. Make sure to follow the correct liquid-to-rice ratio.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the onions first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What can I serve with French Onion Chicken Rice?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread pairs well with this dish.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What type of onions work best?

Yellow onions are ideal for caramelization, but you can use sweet onions for a milder taste.

Can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth mixture.

Why is my rice undercooked?

If the liquid evaporated too quickly, add a little more broth, cover, and continue baking until tender.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Gruyère is the best for an authentic French onion flavor, but mozzarella, Swiss, or provolone work well too.

Conclusion

French Onion Chicken Rice is a delicious, one-pan meal that brings together the comforting flavors of French onion soup with hearty chicken and rice. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it with different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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